Podcasts about Air force academy

Courtroom Calling: Col. Greg Thompson and Katie BakerPractice may not always make perfect, but at Cedarville University, it launches futures. The University's mock trial team is preparing students for legal careers and inspiring them to model the love of Christ in the courtroom.Colonel (Ret.) Greg Thompson, a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps, brought his extensive legal background to Cedarville as a Professor of Criminal Justice. With experience in criminal prosecution, defense, and national security law — as well as time coaching mock trial at the U.S. Air Force Academy — he was well-equipped to launch the University's mock trial program.One of the first students on the team was Katie Baker, a passionate social work major who found her calling in the courtroom.Katie, now heading to the University of Akron School of Law, first stepped into the world of legal advocacy through Cedarville's new mock trial team. Inspired by her internship in children's services, she witnessed firsthand the heartache — and hope — found in family law. Her drive to stand in the gap for hurting children and families only deepened through the team.Mock trial at Cedarville is more than competition. It's a training ground for future advocates built on biblical truth and a commitment to excellence. Students wrestle through 250-page case files, face unpredictable courtroom twists, and stand with poise, shaped by Col. Thompson's guidance and reminders that every courtroom mirrors the deeper truth that Christ stands as our advocate.Though the team didn't claim a championship trophy this year, they competed with heart against top-tier programs — and earned respect for both their skill and the faith that underpins it.In just two seasons, Cedarville's mock trial team has built an extraordinary legacy where faith meets advocacy and students like Katie step boldly into the future.Hear Katie and Col. Thompson share the team's formative and funny stories on this week's episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.https://share.transistor.fm/s/d8a69d2chttps://youtu.be/twmISdeAsJk

In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, John “Rain” Waters is joined by Vince “Snapper” Sherer, a veteran A-10 pilot with 4,500 flight hours and 299 combat missions. Snapper breaks down his path from the Air Force Academy to deployments across Afghanistan flying the A-10A and A-10C, including time in the MC-12. He details the evolution of close air support, the integration of targeting pods, and the challenges of executing time-sensitive strikes in complex environments. Snapper also shares how personal events—including his brother's career-ending accident and a high-casualty strike on a high-value target—shaped his approach to combat and leadership. The discussion covers training, weapons employment, A-10 capabilities, and the operational realities of supporting ground forces across multiple conflicts.Snapper YT: https://www.youtube.com/@snapperlandSnapper IG: https://www.instagram.com/snapperland

Steven L. Kwast is a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General and the Co-founder and CEO of SpaceBilt, a company reimagining the entire spacecraft lifecycle to enable scalable, sustainable space infrastructure. A 1986 U.S. Air Force Academy graduate in astronautical engineering, he served 33 years, commanding units like the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing in Afghanistan and the Air Education and Training Command. A combat-tested F-15E pilot with 3,300+ flight hours (650 in combat), he also holds a Master's in Public Policy from Harvard. A key advocate for the U.S. Space Force, Kwast now leads innovation in space technology and speaks on national security, space policy, and economic development beyond Earth. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: ⁠https://uscca.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.betterhelp.com/srs⁠ This episode is sponsored by Better Help. Give online therapy a try at ⁠betterhelp.com/srs⁠ and get on your way to being your best self. ⁠https://www.meetfabric.com/shawn⁠ ⁠https://www.fastgrowingtrees.com⁠ - USE CODE SRS ⁠https://www.shawnlikesgold.com⁠ | 855-936-GOLD ⁠https://www.helixsleep.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://hexclad.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.paladinpower.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.patriotmobile.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.rocketmoney.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.shopify.com/srs Steve Kwast Links: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-kwast-362a3a15  Skycorp Incorporated - https://www.skycorpinc.com SpaceBilt - https://www.spacebilt.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on Tis the Podcast, the elves are back to keep the Christmas spirit alive all summer long! Tom, Julia, and Anthony dive into three festive episodes of Last Man Standing, sharing laughs, hot takes, and a few heartfelt moments along the way. First, the crew unpacks “The Gift of the Wise Man,” where Mike Baxter's attempt to delegate Christmas duties goes hilariously off the rails—think fake family Christmas letters, a nativity scene reimagined as the “Everytivity,” and the chaos that ensues when control is handed over to the rest of the Baxter clan. Next, they tackle “My Name is Rob,” an episode that brings Eve home from the Air Force Academy with her new boyfriend, Rob. The hosts discuss the show's sometimes heavy-handed approach to serious topics and how the dynamics between the Baxter sisters have evolved over the seasons. Finally, the team reviews “The Gift of the Mike Guy,” highlighting cast changes, the bittersweet humor of naming streets after the living, and the heartwarming tradition of decorating the family tree—even if the new Mandy's energy just isn't quite the same. Along the way, there's talk of summer reading by the pool, the latest Superman trailer, and the eternal debate over the best hot cocoa recipe. We'd love to hear from you - share your own holiday drink secrets (but beware: Swiss Miss fans need not apply). Tune in for a blend of nostalgia, critique, and Christmas cheer—no matter what the calendar says!

What happens when a university rethinks the whole higher ed model rebuilds it around hands-on, project-based learning?Matt Kirchner dives into the bold model pioneered by Worcester Polytechnic Institute with Dr. Kristin Wobbe, Director of the Center for Project-Based Learning. A biochemist turned curriculum innovator, Kris has spent nearly two decades helping WPI embed real-world projects into every stage of a student's education.From first-year seminars on global challenges to immersive junior-year team projects with community partners around the world, WPI's model turns students into creators, collaborators, and critical thinkers from day one.Whether you're a university leader or an instructor in search of a better way to teach, this episode offers a masterclass in how to make learning stick.Listen to learn:Why students don't need to “know everything” before they dive into hands-on learningHow WPI redesigned its calendar and credits to prioritize deep project workWhat first-year students can accomplish when they take on global problemsHow project-based learning transforms both faculty culture and student confidenceWhy WPI students are more prepared for the workforce than their peers3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:1. Project-based learning works best when it starts early and is embedded across the entire student journey.At WPI, students can opt into the Great Problems Seminar in their first year—a two-course sequence that explores global issues like food security, energy, and AI through interdisciplinary teamwork. By senior year, every student must complete a Major Qualifying Project worth three full courses, often in partnership with faculty or industry, making project-based learning a requirement, not an add-on.2. The humanities directly enhance technical learning and student outcomes.WPI's alumni data shows students who complete their humanities and arts curriculum earlier perform better in technical coursework later on. These experiences sharpen communication, interdisciplinary research, and critical thinking skills—essential for identifying problems worth solving and communicating solutions effectively in STEM fields.3. Project-based learning is scalable far beyond polytechnic institutions.Through WPI's Center for Project-Based Learning, Kris and her team have supported schools ranging from the Air Force Academy to community colleges and liberal arts institutions like the New England Conservatory of Music. With 85% of WPI faculty incorporating projects into their courses—and over half of student work now project-based—the model proves adaptable across disciplines, schedules, and resource levels.Resources in this Episode:To learn more about the Center for Project-Based Learning at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, visit: https://wp.wpi.edu/projectbasedlearning/Other resources:Read Kris's book Project-Based Learning in the First YearBeyond All ExpectationsWe want to hear from you! Send us a text.Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

From A-10 combat missions to three Super Bowl championships, Chad Hennings has led in the air, on the field, and now—through character-based leadership.----more---- SUMMARY In the latest episode of Long Blue Leadership, Chad shares pivotal lessons from two leadership crucibles: flying in combat and transitioning from military life to the NFL. We also talk about his work today helping others lead with moral courage, through business, mentorship, and his Forces of Character podcast.   SHARE THIS CONVERSATION LINKEDIN | FACEBOOK   CHAD'S TOP LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS  - Chad chose to fulfill his military commitment over NFL opportunities.  - Commitment and integrity were instilled in him from a young age.  - Athletics served as a leadership laboratory for Chad.  - Leadership is about setting an example for others.  - Identity is not defined by what you do, but who you are.  - Struggles and obstacles are essential for personal growth.  - Character development requires strong relationships and feedback.  - Kinetic character means actively working on your character.  - Resilience is built through overcoming challenges.  - True fulfillment comes from relationships, not material success. Visualization is key to understanding identity and leadership.  - Leadership is about serving others, not just personal gain.  - True leadership involves modeling behavior for others.  - Identity is foundational for making sound decisions.  - Transitioning from structured environments can challenge one's identity.  - Don't compromise your values to fit in with a group.  - Creating community is essential for personal growth.  - Daily practices like devotionals can set the tone for leadership.  - A growth mindset is crucial for continuous improvement.  - Character and integrity are essential for effective leadership.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Commitment 02:02 Crossroads: Choosing Commitment Over Opportunity 05:58 Lessons from Athletics and Leadership 11:47 The Evolution of Identity and Purpose 16:07 Character Development Through Struggles 21:50 Kinetic Character: The Importance of Relationships 24:04 Visualizing Identity and Leadership 29:12 Navigating Transitions and Identity 32:07 Building Community and Legacy 38:09 Daily Practices for Effective Leadership 40:49 The Importance of Mindset in Leadership 42:08 Character and Integrity in Leadership 43:06 Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders   ABOUT CHAD BIO Chad learned the value of hard work, trust, and integrity growing up on his parent's farm in Iowa. Those lessons became central to the life he's lived since with unwavering character. From the fields of Iowa to the skies over Iraq, Chad's journey took him from the U.S. Air Force Academy where he earned academic All-American honors and won the Outland Trophy as the nation's top lineman, to flying 45, A-10 combat and humanitarian missions in the first Gulf war. It was only after fulfilling his commitment to serve that Chad entered the NFL. He was 27 at the time and went on to win three Super Bowl championships with the Dallas Cowboys. Today, Chad continues to lead from the front. He's a speaker and he's authored several books including It Takes Commitment, Rules of Engagement, and Forces of Character. He founded Wingmen Ministries and is a principal in Rubicon Representation, where he helps businesses grow through meaningful relationships and synergy. He's also the host of his new podcast, Forces of Character, where he shares stories of moral courage and principled leadership, including two periods in his life as a developing and growing leader that ultimately became crucibles. One of those in the cockpit in combat and another transitioning from the military to the NFL.   FORCES OF CHARACTER PODCAST Chad Hennings, renowned author and former professional NFL athlete, is excited to announce the upcoming launch of his new project, the Forces of Character Podcast, slated for release in early 2025. Based on the principles outlined in his bestselling book, Forces of Character, the podcast will feature insightful interviews with extraordinary individuals who have demonstrated unwavering character and a noble purpose in their personal and professional lives. LISTEN HERE    - Copy and image courtesy of Chad Hennings and Forces of Character     CONNECT WITH CHAD LINKEDIN | RUBICON REPRESENTATION ON LINKEDIN       ALL PAST LBL EPISODES  |  ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS     TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS Our guest:  Chad Hennings '82 | Our host: Lt. Col. Naviere Walkewicz '99   KEYWORDS Leadership, commitment, character, Air Force Academy, NFL, personal growth, identity, resilience, mentorship, purpose, leadership, identity, visualization, transitions, community, legacy, daily practices, mindset, character, integrity     The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation    

Send us a textGreg Popovich has retired as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs at age 76, though he continues as President of Basketball Operations after a legendary NBA coaching career.• Pop attended the US Air Force Academy as a guard and team captain• He tried out for the 1972 Olympic team and played for the Armed Forces All-Star Team• Joined the Spurs in 1988 as an assistant coach under Larry Brown• Became head coach in 1996 while also serving as GM and VP of Basketball Operations• Coached legendary players including Tim Duncan, David Robinson, Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, and Kawhi Leonard• Developed a significant coaching tree including Steve Kerr, Becky Hammon, and Ime Udoka• Won multiple NBA Championships and developed both star players and role players• Recently worked with developing Victor Wembanyama and other young Spurs talentPlease like, subscribe, comment, and tell anyone who's anyone about the show. Also, share your favorite Greg Popovich stories and facts with us!Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/GetABucketShow for more content!!!

Want to become an Air Force Officer? This episode of Academy and ROTC Insiders features LTC Rob Kirkland and Trish Dach discussing the current state of Air Force ROTC, including the challenging scholarship environment and the surprisingly low field training selection rate. Discover the key differences between Air Force ROTC and the Air Force Academy, and hear their expert advice on the best path forward – including why the Academy should be your first look and how to approach AFROTC as a strategic backup. LTC Rob Kirkland and Trish Dach are your guides to navigating the competitive world of military scholarships, having helped students earn millions of dollars over the years. They provide the transparency and insights you need to succeed. Ready to build a winning strategy for any ROTC scholarship? We provide personalized guidance based on proven experience.

In this edition of Long Blue Leadership, host Naviere Walkewicz '99 talks with Emma Przybyslawski '10, an Air Force Academy graduate whose path has taken her from the front lines of tactical special operations in combat zones to the founder's chair at Strike Solutions. SUMMARY With 1,634 confirmed kills, and personal threats from ISIS, Emma knows what high-stakes leadership looks like. She opened up about her transition to the tech world, the power of the Air Force Academy network, and the role that courage, flexibility, and humor play in both survival and success. Whether you're in uniform or in a startup, Emma's insights on active listening and continual growth are essential to your success as a developing or seasoned leader.   SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN  |  FACEBOOK   EMMA'S 10 BEST LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS Leadership Requires Courage and Action “You have to be courageous and lean forward… even when you're not sure.” → Leaders don't wait for certainty—they move, learn, and adapt. Course Correction Is a Leadership Strength “You're not always going to get it right, but you can course correct.” → Mistakes aren't fatal if you're willing to pivot and improve. Ownership Is the Price of Admission to Elite Teams “You meet the standard or exceed it—or you're not on the team.” → High-performance cultures are built on individual accountability. Active Listening Builds Trust and Influence “Sometimes somebody just needs you to listen… and engage without fixing.” → Listening is one of a leader's most powerful tools. Feedback Isn't Personal—It's Growth Fuel “Ask for feedback—and be willing to take it.” → Good leaders seek the truth about themselves, even when it stings. You Can Lead From Any Seat Emma's career includes transitions from cadet to combat controller to business owner. → Title doesn't define leadership—character and action do. Clarity of Standards Drives Excellence “There was no rank—just performance. You either deliver or you're gone.” → Clear expectations reduce confusion and elevate teams. Mission Over Ego Her willingness to return to the Academy after leaving shows humility. → Leadership often means swallowing pride for a greater goal. Diversity Demands Curiosity, Not Assumptions “Ask people about their experience—don't assume you understand it.” → Inclusive leaders replace judgment with curiosity. Leaders Multiply Leadership “Your leadership should raise the waterline for everyone around you.” → Leadership is about impact—lifting others as you grow.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Emma Prisboslawski's Journey 01:26 Life in Special Operations 07:02 Navigating Chaos: A Day in Emma's Life 10:40 The Academy Experience: A Personal Journey 18:04 Leadership Lessons from Military Experience 27:52 The Importance of Active Listening in Leadership 28:21 The Power of Listening and Empathy 29:51 Navigating Career Transitions 32:18 Embracing Technology and Innovation 35:55 The Importance of Networking 36:24 Building Strike Solutions 37:48 Navigating the Vast Tech Landscape 40:14 Learning from Mistakes 42:31 Giving Back to the Academy 46:31 Continuous Self-Improvement and Leadership   ABOUT EMMA BIO Emma Przybyslawski '10 is the daughter of Mj. Gen. (Ret.) Anthony '76 and Priscilla Pzybyslawski. She spent her childhood counting the number of states she lived in as a military brat. While at the Academy, she loved living in Cadet Squadron 19 and eventually led the Wolverines as Squadron Commander to Outstanding Squadron of the Year. Upon graduation, Emma was commissioned as a special operations intelligence officer and spent her Air Force career either overseas supporting counterdrug efforts or counterterrorism operations in the Middle East; she was awarded a Bronze Star during her last deployment for her combat efforts in Iraq. She decided to separate from the Air Force in 2016 and started her civilian career in the high-tech industry. Emma has since founded Strike Solutions, a defense company focused on bringing advanced technology solutions to various DoD operational mission sets. In her free time, she has a passion for traveling, food, spending time with family and friends, and sports – but all of those things are best enjoyed with her husband and Air Force pilot Chris Spach and their Bernese Mountain Dogs, Gunner and Harley.   CONNECT WITH EMMA LINKEDIN  |  STRIKE SOLUTIONS     ALL PAST LBL EPISODES  |  ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS     TRANSCRIPT OUR SPEAKERS GUEST:  Emma Przybyslawski '10  |  HOST:  Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99    KEYWORDS leadership, resilience, military, special operations, personal growth, Air Force Academy, women in combat, entrepreneurship, active listening, mentorship, leadership, empathy, career transition, technology, networking, innovation, military, Air Force Academy, personal growth, mentorship     The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation    

Jeff is the co-creator of Scrum and a leading expert on how the Scrum framework has evolved to meet the needs of today's business. The framework he developed in 1993 and formalized in 1995 with Ken Schwaber has since been adopted by the vast majority of software development companies around the world. However, Jeff realized that the benefits of Scrum are not limited to software and product development. He has adapted this successful strategy for several other industries, including finance, healthcare, higher education, and telecom.   As the CEO of Scrum Inc. Jeff sets the vision for success with Scrum. He continues to share best practices with organizations around the globe and has written extensively on Scrum rules and methods. With a deep understanding of business process — gleaned from years as CTO/CEO of eleven different software companies — Jeff is able to describe the high-level organizational benefits of Scrum and what it takes to create hyperproductive teams.   Topics of Discussion: [:35] Introduction of Jeff Sutherland, co-creator of Scrum. [3:47] Jeff Sutherland's background: His experience at West Point and lessons in making work visible. [5:19] Fighter pilot experiences that influenced the operational side of Scrum. [6:02] Transition to the Air Force Academy and work in AI at Stanford. [7:38] Learning complex adaptive systems and the origin of Agile from complex systems theory. [8:30] How complex systems theory impacts Scrum and Agile teams today. [9:25] Jeff's first experiences applying Scrum in the banking industry. [11:25] The development of Scrum and the 2001 Agile Manifesto. [12:57] Making work visible and organizing teams, from West Point to Toyota to the Agile Manifesto. [13:23] Fast forward to 2024: Issues in Scrum and Agile practices, including sprint lengths and backlog grooming. [14:34] Jeff's new book: First Principles in Scrum and its relation to Scrum technology stacks. [16:23] Building autonomous systems: Lessons from radiation physics, AI, and complex adaptive systems. [19:16] The influence of autonomous robots on the creation of Scrum. [21:14] Discussion of Scrum and AI, leading to “Extreme Agile.” [22:47] Predictions for the future of Scrum and Agile: Teams becoming 30 to 100 times faster by 2030. [23:37] Example of AI in action: Developing a system to handle expense reports using Scrum principles. [29:37] Challenges with AI-generated code and the need for strong software architecture knowledge. [33:24] The importance of following Scrum “by the book” to achieve hyperproductivity. [35:30] Jeff's closing advice on adapting to extreme agile to stay competitive by 2030.   Mentioned in this Episode: Clear Measure Way Architect Forum Software Engineer Forum Programming with Palermo — New Video Podcast! Email us at programming@palermo.net. Clear Measure, Inc. (Sponsor) .NET DevOps for Azure: A Developer's Guide to DevOps Architecture the Right Way, by Jeffrey Palermo “How the Agile Manifesto Came To Be” Become a beta tester for Jeff Sutherland's AI software project for expense reports: support@quickaireports.com   Want to Learn More? Visit AzureDevOps.Show for show notes and additional episodes.

From January 16, 2024: Over the last two months, Houthi militants have waged more than 27 attacks against merchant shipping and U.S. and partner forces in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, purportedly in response to the war in Gaza. These attacks have significantly disrupted global shipping and surged the Middle East into an even more precarious security situation. Following a large-scale Houthi attack on U.S. and British ships, the U.S. and U.K. on Jan. 11 launched over 150 munitions targeting almost 30 Houthi sites in Yemen. The U.S. on Jan. 12 carried out another strike on a Houthi radar facility. The Houthis have since retaliated with multiple strikes targeting U.S. forces. Yesterday, the Houthis for the first time successfully struck a cargo ship owned and operated by the United States.Lawfare Research Fellow Matt Gluck sat down with Gregory Johnsen, the Associate Director of the Institute for Future Conflict at the U.S. Air Force Academy and Lawfare Senior Editor Scott R. Anderson to discuss the spate of Houthi attacks, the U.S. response and the associated domestic and international law questions, and where the fighting is likely to go from here. What can history tell us about the possible paths forward? Why did the U.S. act when it did? What's in it for the Houthis? They chewed over these questions and more. To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Victor Vogel, a former oncologist turned flight instructor, founded the nonprofit Susquehanna STEM to the Skies to improve STEM education in rural Pennsylvania. The aviation-based STEM program was launched to address declining science and math scores among students, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. By combining aviation concepts with hands-on learning, the program offers a powerful way to teach science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in real-world contexts. Victor discovered that aviation offers rich, practical applications for STEM—such as flight navigation, time-speed-distance calculations, weight and balance, and engineering challenges. At the heart of the program is a Redbird FMX full-motion flight simulator, which draws students to the airport and anchors immersive educational experiences. Victor quickly learned that involving educators—not just pilots—was critical. Today, the board includes school superintendents, career technical center (CTC) leaders, and drone experts. Students experience aviation careers beyond piloting, including aircraft maintenance, drone operation, medical helicopter crews, and aerospace engineering. Field trips, Girl Scout and Boy Scout aviation badge events, career fairs, and summer STEM camps all expose kids to high-demand aviation-related fields. Programs often include time in the simulator, tours of LifeFlight helicopters, and visits to maintenance hangars and paint shops. Partnering with Sun Technical Institute, the program offers career-track students opportunities to fabricate metal airplanes and build Mars rover kits. A Redbird J desktop simulator expands access for physically challenged students. Another initiative included building a pedal-powered Piper Cub with students, demonstrating how aviation and vocational trades can intersect creatively. Several success stories highlight the program's impact. One former flight attendant is now a multi-rated certified flight instructor after a single inspiring simulator session. Others have moved on to flight schools, the Air Force Academy, or regional airline careers. The program's ripple effect is also reaching educators. One high school band director attended the AOPA High School STEM Symposium, launched an aviation club, and introduced aviation curriculum into his school. The organization was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in late 2020—just as the COVID-19 pandemic was surging. Despite the initial slow progress, Victor journaled his efforts during the pandemic, later publishing them in his book Pains and Planes, which captures both the struggle of cancer patients during COVID and his dream of launching a STEM nonprofit. Looking forward, Victor emphasizes the importance of finding volunteers—especially retired pilots, mechanics, teachers, and educators. He believes many people are simply waiting to be asked to contribute. He encourages others to replicate this aviation nonprofit model in their own communities by starting with educators, partnering with local airports, forming a nonprofit, and reaching out to media for visibility. For those inspired to launch a similar STEM and aviation program, Victor recommends building partnerships with school districts and intermediate units, seeking grants and donations, and always putting student engagement first. His program shows that aviation-based STEM education can uplift rural students and guide them toward rewarding careers. To learn more or get involved, visit www.stemtoskies.org or contact Victor at vvogel@aol.com. Mentioned on the Show Buy Max Trescott's G3000 Book Call 800-247-6553 Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset Giveaway Flights forced to reroute mid-air as Pentagon-bound chopper disrupts DCA traffic Tweet: near misses involving two DCA flights NTSB Preliminary Report on Rob Holland crash Free Index to the first 282 episodes of Aviation New Talk So You Want To Learn to Fly or Buy a Cirrus seminars Online Version of the Seminar Coming Soon – Register for Notification Check out our recommended ADS-B receivers, and order one for yourself. Yes, we'll make a couple of dollars if you do. Get the Free Aviation News Talk app for iOS or Android. Check out Max's Online Courses: G1000 VFR, G1000 IFR, and Flying WAAS & GPS Approaches. Find them all at: https://www.pilotlearning.com/ Social Media Like Aviation News Talk podcast on Facebook Follow Max on Instagram Follow Max on Twitter Listen to all Aviation News Talk podcasts on YouTube or YouTube Premium "Go Around" song used by permission of Ken Dravis; you can buy his music at kendravis.com If you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.

Send us a textIn today's Daily Drop, Jared pulls no punches while breaking down the latest military circus—from AFN killing off its podcasts (wait, they had podcasts?) to the Air Force Academy gutting its own rocket science faculty because “budget.” And just when you thought it couldn't get weirder: Space Force is dropping a documentary… and no, it's not sci-fi.We've got F-35 inventory fraud ($11 billion missing? Casual.), Travis AFB potentially doubling as an immigration detention center (because why not?), and the Air Force cutting family days because “readiness.” Oh, and the Pentagon still can't pass an audit. But sure, let's launch more documentaries instead of fixing jets.Tune in for a raw, snarky breakdown of the memo that hits generals' inboxes but never gets real talk—until now. And yeah, you're gonna want to sit down for this one.

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/

In this episode of Lehto Files, Chris Lehto sits down with Lue Elizondo, former military intelligence officer and whistleblower, for a raw and honest conversation about the true threat facing humanity. It's not aliens. It's not AI. It's something far more human: corruption. Lue shares a deeply personal story about his father—and explains how that experience shaped his view of global secrecy, institutional failure, and the real risks behind the UAP cover-up. This is not just a conversation about UFOs. It's about trust, integrity, and what kind of world we're leaving behind.

Conversations In Ken's Café with Scott Wilson, aka Gardener ScottSeason 3 Episode 30 Today's Guest: Scott‘Gardener Scott' Wilson is an avid gardening educator. Certified as a Colorado Master Gardener in 2004, he began teaching gardening classes for Colorado Cooperative Extension the same year and has taught dozens of classes throughout Colorado since then. As the Managing Master Gardener for the Galileo Garden Project, he designed, built, and managed volunteer operations for a 24,000-square-footschool garden. The garden grew more than 2,000 pounds of produce for the school and educated more than 1,000 students each year. Scott continues to teach andpresent gardening discussions to community members, Garden Clubs, and gardening organizations in person and online.  Scott has appeared on numerous podcasts in the U.S. and U.K, collaborates with gardeners and garden projects in many countries, and hosts a global audience onhis weekly YouTube livestream gardening show. His “Gardener Scott” YouTube channel has hundreds of gardening videos with more than 38 million views andmore than 400,000 subscribers. His Instagram page documents the every-changing views in his Colorado garden.  A retired U.S. Air Force Command Pilot, he served at the US Air Force Academy managing flight operations at the Academy airfield.  Scott lives in Colorado and focuses on helping gardeners of all skill levels with practical and knowledgeable advice. Scott has two adult children and five grandchildren and enjoys travel, good food, and new experiences.  GardenerScott.comGardenerScott YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/@GardenerScottFacebookpage:  https://www.facebook.com/GardenerScottTwitter:@GardenerScottInstagram:@GardenerScottTikTok:@GardenerScott Your HostKen Somerville “It's All AboutThe Biology”https://www.instagram.com/kensomerville/https://twitter.com/KenSomerville1https://www.itsallaboutthebiology.caContactemail itsallaboutthebiology@gmail.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-somerville-6b9945239/https://www.facebook.com/itsallaboutthebiologytour Helpsupport the mission: patreon.com/user?u=104510089 Discount codes available at: https://www.itsallaboutthebiology.ca/discountcodes#flowers,#plants,#nature,#gardening,#garden,#growing,#koreannaturalfarming,#naturalfarming,#jadam,#naturalfertilizer,#naturalfarminginputs,#permaculture,#regenerative,#foodforest,#biodynamic,#bioactive,#organic,#notill,#knf,#organicgardening,#urbangardening,#containergardening,#homegardening,For Full: Disclaimer

In this exclusive breakdown, I analyze the newly released USS Jackson UAP video, confirmed by Senior Chief Alex Wiggins. This Tic Tac-shaped object was captured on FLIR and radar—and it's not a commercial airliner. -As a retired F-16 pilot with nearly two decades of experience in targeting systems and tactical radar operations, I explain: ✅ How the object was tracked ✅ Why the radar “X” hits appear every second ✅ Trigonometric range and size analysis ✅ What makes this case different from debunked videos like Chile's This is one of the most credible UAP cases ever recorded. If AARO and Congress don't investigate this, what are we even doing?

Send us a textToday's Daily Drop is brought to you by: chaos. Jared's on one, the Public Affairs Office is finally back in the saddle, and we're neck-deep in Pentagon leaks, Guard drama, Space Force growing pains, and morale breakdowns at the Air Force Academy.In this episode: 

Retired F-16 pilot Chris Lehto analyzes the 2023 USS Jackson UAP footage, a new Tic Tac encounter echoing the 2004 Nimitz case. Radar, SAFIRE FLIR, and Navy veteran testimony reveal transmedium travel and hypersonic speeds—yet AARO claims no record. Why the holdup? Congress must demand answers.Watch the full USS Jackson story on Weaponized podcast, Episode #73: https://www.weaponizedpodcast.com/news-1/uss-jackson-tic-tac-uap Share and contact Rep. Luna & Burchett to push for a UAP hearing! Subscribe to Lehto Files for more. #UAP #USSJackson #TicTacChris Lehto is a former F-16 pilot with 18 years of experience in the Air Force. He managed multi-million dollar simulator contracts, was an Electronic Attack SME for the Aggressors (OPFOR), and commanded the US Detachment at TLP for NATO Fighter Pilot Training. Chris fought in Iraq for 5 months in 2006. He spent 3 years in Turkey as an exchange pilot and is fluent in Turkish. Chris is also a certified crash safety investigator, having investigated Air Force accidents for four years. Lehto has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry-Materials Science from the Air Force Academy and a Master's in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle University. He was stationed in various locations worldwide, including South Korea, Italy, Alaska, Turkey, and Spain. Lehto's YouTube channel, "Lehto Files," focuses on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) research, future tech insights, and sharing knowledge. His approach is scientific and aims to illuminate these phenomena and provide informative content. He also shares his expertise on aviation safety and accident analysis. Lehto believes in the power of open dialogue and the importance of a censor-free internet.Lehto covers a range of topics, including: • Analysis of aviation accidents, such as the collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. • Identification of drones, drawing on his Air Force security forces experience. • Insights into Alternate Physics - promoting his Fractal Holographic Universe Theory • Discussions of UAPs and related topics. • Insights into space exploration, including his experience at the launch of SpaceX's Starship SN25.Join this channel for exclusive access: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVNKdkLzWuy1oLuCuCv4NCA/joinFollow on social X: https://x.com/LehtoFilesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lehtofilesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090658513954 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lehto_files/reels/Support the channel and get exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/chrislehto Invest in UAP Society NFTs!  https://opensea.io/collection/uapeezSharing my referral link for when you order your Tesla. You'll get 500 € off the purchase of a Tesla product. https://www.tesla.com/referral/christopher39105Donate eth to: chrislehto.eth full ETH address is 0x26E3c9b2A5E5b6B7FB54f5F0120B0E4840EB7B24Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lehto-files-investigating-uaps--5990774/support.

Send us a textWelcome to another unfiltered Ones Ready daily drop, where we scan the Pentagon's inbox so you don't have to. Today's episode is jammed with everything from micro nuclear reactors to the Space Command slap fight, and we even toss in some childcare policy chaos—because why not?Jared breaks down what the Air Force and Space Force are actually up to (spoiler: some of it's impressive, some of it's… less so). Whether it's China's hypersonic flexing, Germany's Starlink breakup, or another case of “Oops, we deleted history” with the Thunderbirds' first female pilot, it's all here. Oh, and did we mention a rocket plant exploded? That happened too.This one's for the curious, the cynical, and everyone wondering what the hell is going on at the Air Force Academy.

Personal challenges have not dimmed the force that is Sam Gilman.A former Air Force Academy distance star, Sam came into the New Year with a blast, securing bronze at the USA Indoor Track & Field Championships in February with a time of 7:38.64 in the 3,000m.Sam followed that up with a 7:34.69 on March 2 at Boston University, a new PR for the distance. Sam has additional PRs of 13:15.58 in the 5k, 3:35.40 in the 1500m, 3:52.81 in the mile, and 1:52.50 in the 800m. Sam's impressive start to the New Year earned him a spot on Team USA for the USATF Indoor Championships in China; he clocked a 7:47.19, and was 0.1 seconds shy of a podium finish, claiming fourth in the 3,000m. Sam was a two-time All-American at Air Force; he finished 5th in the 2022 NCAA outdoor 5K championship and 6th in the 2021 NCAA XC Championship. He graduated in 2023, and is currently heading out to Utah to train with Grant Fisher and his well-respected coach, Mike Scannell. Sam went to Hilton Head High School in South Carolina, where he accounted for two state titles in the 1600m, and one in the 800m and 3200m. He also set a South Carolina state record in the mile with a time of 4:06.50. In today's conversation, Sam walks me through his time as a professional runner, his performance at World Indoors, getting accepted into WCAP, lessons from training with Grant Fisher, his ambitions for the future, and so much more.Tap into the Sam Gilman Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I'll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-BUY MERCH BEFORE IT'S GONE: https://shop.therunningeffect.run-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

A view of leadership and character development through the eyes and actions of a world-class athlete. SUMMARY For NCAA Division I heavyweight wrestling champion and newly commissioned 2nd Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson '24, what happens on the mat informs how he manages conflict, planning, strategy and tactics, and most importantly, his development as a leader.   SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN  |  FACEBOOK   WYATT'S TAKEAWAYS  - Wyatt's journey exemplifies leadership and perseverance.  - The Air Force Academy provided a strong foundation for Wyatt.  - Pivotal moments can change the trajectory of one's life.  - Tattoos can tell a personal story and hold deep meaning.  - Winning the NCAA title was a culmination of hard work and strategy.   - Mindset and planning are crucial in wrestling and leadership.  - Family support plays a significant role in personal success.  - Mastering the basics is essential for excellence in any field.  - Call signs reflect identity and values in the military.  - God's plan often unfolds in unexpected ways.  Adversity can lead to personal growth and resilience.  - Mental strength is crucial in competitive sports.  - Reaching out for help is essential for overcoming challenges.  - Building a strong foundation in skills is vital for success.  - Wrestling teaches valuable life lessons about failure and perseverance.  - Enjoying the journey is as important as achieving goals.  - Hard work is the only path to success; there are no shortcuts.  - Self-motivation is key to personal and professional growth.  - Doing little things right builds good habits and character.  - Faith and gratitude play a significant role in success.   CHAPTERS 00:00:  Introduction to Leadership and Perseverance 02:07:  The Journey to the Air Force Academy 05:56:  Defining Moments and Personal Growth 09:57:  Tattoos and Their Significance 14:03:  The NCAA Championship Experience 18:03:  Mindset and Training in Wrestling 22:05:  Call Signs and Identity 26:00:  Family Background and Support 27:06:  Overcoming Adversity in Wrestling 30:40:  The Mental Game of Wrestling 35:15:  Building a Strong Foundation 38:01:  Lessons from Wrestling and Military 40:34:  Training for the 2028 Olympics 42:08:  Finding Joy in the Journey 44:42:  Navigating Sponsorships and NIL 47:03:  The Importance of Doing Little Things Right 50:48:  Self-Motivation and Purpose 54:02:  Closing Thoughts and Gratitude     ABOUT WYATT HENDRICKSON BIO 2nd Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson '24 is a wrestler known for his remarkable collegiate career and service in the United States Air Force. He gained national attention in 2025 by winning the NCAA heavyweight championship, defeating Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson in a dramatic upset. Early Life and High School Career Hendrickson comes from Newton, Kansas, and is the son of Todd and Lynnette Hendrickson. At Newton High School, he was a standout wrestler, becoming a two-time Kansas state champion and a three-time finalist. He earned All-American honors in freestyle, Greco-Roman, and folkstyle wrestling, and won national titles at the NHSCA Senior Nationals and FloNationals.  Collegiate Wrestling Career Air Force Academy Initially hesitant about a military path, Wyatt was persuaded by his father to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy. There, he became one of the most dominant heavyweight wrestlers in NCAA history. He was a five-time NCAA qualifier, two-time Big 12 champion, and two-time NCAA All-American, finishing third nationally in both 2023 and 2024. He led the nation in pins for three consecutive seasons and was twice named the NCAA Most Dominant Wrestler. He concluded his Air Force career with a 103–11 record, becoming the program's all-time leader in pins.​ Oklahoma State University Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wyatt had an extra year of eligibility. As a member of the Air Force's World Class Athlete Program, he was allowed to delay active-duty service to pursue Olympic training. This enabled him to transfer to Oklahoma State University for the 2024–25 season. Fulfilling a childhood dream, he joined the Cowboys and went undefeated (27–0), culminating in his victory over Gable Steveson in the NCAA finals. Personal Life and Military Service Wyatt holds the rank of second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and is pursuing an MBA at Oklahoma State University. His unique journey from a small-town Kansas wrestler to NCAA champion and military officer exemplifies dedication and perseverance.​ MORE ON WYATT HERE:   CONNECT WITH WYATT INSTAGRAM  |  LINKEDIN     ALL PAST LBL EPISODES  |  ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS     FULL TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS:  Guest, 2nd. Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson '24  |  Host, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99             KEYWORDS Leadership, perseverance, Air Force Academy, wrestling, NCAA champion, personal growth, mindset, tattoos, family support, call signs, wrestling, adversity, mental strength, Olympic training, leadership, self-improvement, Air Force Academy, sponsorships, NIL (Name, Image, Likeness), personal growth   GALLERY       The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation    

Join Chris Lehto on "Lehto Files" as he interviews Lester Nare, founder of UAP Caucus, to explore the latest on UAP disclosure, government secrecy, and the push for transparency. Dive into this in-depth discussion on advanced technology and the future of UAP advocacy.Chris Lehto is a former F-16 pilot with 18 years of experience in the Air Force. He managed multi-million dollar simulator contracts, was an Electronic Attack SME for the Aggressors (OPFOR), and commanded the US Detachment at TLP for NATO Fighter Pilot Training. Chris fought in Iraq for 5 months in 2006. He spent 3 years in Turkey as an exchange pilot and is fluent in Turkish. Chris is also a certified crash safety investigator, having investigated Air Force accidents for four years. Lehto has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry-Materials Science from the Air Force Academy and a Master's in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle University. He was stationed in various locations worldwide, including South Korea, Italy, Alaska, Turkey, and Spain. Lehto's YouTube channel, "Lehto Files," focuses on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) research, future tech insights, and sharing knowledge. His approach is scientific and aims to illuminate these phenomena and provide informative content. He also shares his expertise on aviation safety and accident analysis. Lehto believes in the power of open dialogue and the importance of a censor-free internet. Lehto covers a range of topics, including: • Analysis of aviation accidents, such as the collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. • Identification of drones, drawing on his Air Force security forces experience. • Insights into Alternate Physics - promoting his Fractal Holographic Universe Theory • Discussions of UAPs and related topics. • Insights into space exploration, including his experience at the launch of SpaceX's Starship SN25. #uaps #uapdisclosure #lehtofilesJoin this channel for exclusive access: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVNKdkLzWuy1oLuCuCv4NCA/joinFollow on social X: https://x.com/LehtoFilesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lehtofilesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090658513954 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lehto_files/reels/Support the channel and get exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/chrislehto Invest in UAP Society NFTs! https://opensea.io/collection/uapeezSharing my referral link for when you order your Tesla. You'll get 500 € off the purchase of a Tesla product. https://www.tesla.com/referral/christopher39105 Donate eth to: chrislehto.eth full ETH address is 0x26E3c9b2A5E5b6B7FB54f5F0120B0E4840EB7B24Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lehto-files-investigating-uaps--5990774/support.

Send us a textPeaches' back with the Ones Ready Daily Drop, serving up the Department of the Air Force's juiciest news with a side of zero-BS commentary that'll make bureaucrats cry. From SpaceX dunking on ULA to become the Space Force's launch daddy, to the Pentagon slashing IT contracts like a bad breakup, this episode is a rollercoaster of military shake-ups. Oh, and let's not forget General Dan Cain's 9/11 gut-check or the Air Force Academy's faculty cuts that scream “penny-pinching gone wrong.” Peaches doesn't hold back, calling out the CV-22's gearbox saga and questioning the Insurrection Act's J6 vibes. It's a snarky, no-filter dive into what's shaking the DoD, with enough shade to keep you smirking.  Key Takeaways:  SpaceX is eating ULA's lunch, snagging Space Force launch contracts while dropping NRO payloads like it's no big deal.  The Pentagon's saving $4.2B by axing IT deals, but Jared's not sold on slashing budgets without a brain.  General Dan Cain's confirmed as Joint Chiefs chair—here's hoping he fixes the acquisition mess before it implodes.  The CV-22 gearbox fix is coming, but why'd it take crashes to figure out it's been janky forever?  Insurrection Act talk has Jared side-eyeing hard—J6 wasn't an “insurrection,” so let's not give the DoD a blank check to play cop.Call-to-Actions:Yo, patriots, let's move! Smash that like button like it's a CV-22 gearbox test. Subscribe to keep up with Jared's daily truth bombs. Drop a comment—what's the dumbest DoD cut you've heard about? Leave a review to help us own the charts, and join the Ones Ready membership for ad-free real talk. Don't sleep on the merch store—grab a tee that says “I survived the budget cuts.” Want in on our Operator Training Summit in San Diego? Email jared@onesready.com to lock your spot. Links in the bio—get after it!  Support the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: 1Ready ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pro...

In this episode, Jason and Michael welcome Robert Salas, a retired U.S. Air Force captain and key witness to one of the most compelling UFO incidents in history—the 1967 Malmstrom Air Force Base event.With only one prior presentation of this presentation, Salas delivers a rare and detailed recounting of the night that forever changed his perspective on unidentified aerial phenomena and their implications for national security.On March 24, 1967, Salas was stationed 60 feet underground at Malmstrom AFB in Montana, serving as a deputy missile combat crew commander overseeing ten Minuteman nuclear missiles. What began as a routine night shift turned surreal when security personnel reported strange lights maneuvering silently in the sky. Moments later, a panicked guard described a glowing, red, oval-shaped object—approximately 30 to 40 feet in diameter—hovering directly above the facility's front gate. As Salas processed the report, alarms blared in the control room, indicating that all ten missiles had simultaneously gone offline, rendered inoperable in an unprecedented system failure. The UFO departed, and the missiles remained disabled for nearly 24 hours, with no physical damage but a clear message left behind.Drawing from his firsthand experience, declassified documents, and decades of research, Salas details the incident, which was followed by a similar event just eight days earlier at another Malmstrom site.He discusses the Air Force's initial classification of the event, the non-disclosure agreement he was bound by until 1996, and the broader pattern of UAP activity near nuclear facilities worldwide. Salas also shares insights from his 2023 testimony to the Pentagon's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) and his advocacy for public congressional hearings to address these national security concerns. Was this a demonstration of advanced technology? A warning about nuclear weapons? Or something else entirely? About Robert Salas: A 1964 U.S. Air Force Academy graduate, Robert Salas served seven years on active duty as a weapons controller, missile launch officer, and engineer on the Titan III program. He has authored books including Faded Giant and Unidentified: The UFO Phenomenon and remains a prominent advocate for UAP disclosure.

Unveiling a game-changing discovery at the Great Pyramid! In this video, I dive into how SAR tomography predicted a hidden corridor in 2020—confirmed in 2023 by the Scan Pyramids team. Debunking Metatron and Sabine Hosenfelder, I explore the mind-blowing evidence, new 2025 research, and what this tech could reveal next. Ancient secrets meet cutting-edge science—don't miss it! Links to papers and more in the description.Metatron's debunking video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcbYVKfESAkSabine Hossenfelder's debunking video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqCudopAz64Correction/Update: Thanks for watching! I want to clarify a couple of points. First, the date on the SAR tomography paper by Biondi and Malanga ("Received: 07 October 2020") is likely a typo!The official publication record shows it was received on 30 August 2022 and published in October 2022. Second, the authors likely knew of the North Face Corridor's suspected existence, as the Scan Pyramids project announced an anomaly in 2016-2017. While I didn't claim their finding was completely independent, I also didn't mention this context. Their SAR method still accurately detected the corridor's location, showcasing its potential as a powerful tool for archaeological exploration. Apologies for any confusion, and I'll cover this in more detail in a future video!Check out my two previous videos on this topic: Pilot Unveils Pyramid Secret https://youtu.be/8DZ1p-lF3rI Space Radar Can See Underground https://youtu.be/-E_s4ipIGtUChris Lehto is a former F-16 pilot with 18 years of experience in the Air Force. He managed multi-million dollar simulator contracts, was an Electronic Attack SME for the Aggressors (OPFOR), and commanded the US Detachment at TLP for NATO Fighter Pilot Training. Chris fought in Iraq for 5 months in 2006. He spent 3 years in Turkey as an exchange pilot and is fluent in Turkish. Chris is also a certified crash safety investigator, having investigated Air Force accidents for four years. Lehto has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry-Materials Science from the Air Force Academy and a Master's in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle University. He was stationed in various locations worldwide, including South Korea, Italy, Alaska, Turkey, and Spain. Lehto's YouTube channel, "Lehto Files," focuses on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) research, future tech insights, and sharing knowledge. His approach is scientific and aims to illuminate these phenomena and provide informative content. He also shares his expertise on aviation safety and accident analysis. Lehto believes in the power of open dialogue and the importance of a censor-free internet. Lehto covers a range of topics, including: • Analysis of aviation accidents, such as the collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. • Identification of drones, drawing on his Air Force security forces experience. • Insights into Alternate Physics - promoting his Fractal Holographic Universe Theory • Discussions of UAPs and related topics. • Insights into space exploration, including his experience at the launch of SpaceX's Starship SN25.Join this channel for exclusive access: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVNKdkLzWuy1oLuCuCv4NCA/joinLink to the Paper predicting the Corridor: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362761902_Synthetic_Aperture_Radar_Doppler_Tomography_Reveals_Details_of_Undiscovered_High-Resolution_Internal_Structure_of_the_Great_Pyramid_of_Giza Press Release of ScanPyramids finding the Corridor: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/hidden-chamber-pyramid-giza-180981745/ScanPyramids recent paper 18 March confirming alternate methods of detecting the corridor: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/389949452_Confirmation_of_the_ScanPyramids_North_Face_Corridor_in_the_Great_Pyramid_of_Giza_using_multi-modal_image_fusion_from_three_non-destructive_testing_techniques Follow on social X: https://x.com/LehtoFiles TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lehtofiles Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090658513954 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lehto_files/reels/ Support the channel and get exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/chrislehto Invest in UAP Society NFTs! Each UAPSociety NFT grants early/ad-free access to all LehtoFiles videos- https://opensea.io/collection/uapeez Sharing my referral link for when you order your Tesla. You'll get 500 € off the purchase of a Tesla product. https://www.tesla.com/referral/christopher39105 Donate eth to: chrislehto.eth full ETH address is 0x26E3c9b2A5E5b6B7FB54f5F0120B0E4840EB7B24 #pyramidsofegypt #puramidscan #lehtofilesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lehto-files-investigating-uaps--5990774/support.

This update explores 3 confirmed cases where space-based radar successfully detected underground structures — plus a look at how the same tech was used to scan the Giza Pyramid. As the data builds, so does the case for SAR tomography as an accurate tool for archaeology, geology, and more.Chris Lehto is a former F-16 pilot with 18 years of experience in the Air Force. He managed multi-million dollar simulator contracts, was an Electronic Attack SME for the Aggressors (OPFOR), and commanded the US Detachment at TLP for NATO Fighter Pilot Training. Chris fought in Iraq for 5 months in 2006. He spent 3 years in Turkey as an exchange pilot and is fluent in Turkish. Chris is also a certified crash safety investigator, having investigated Air Force accidents for four years. Lehto has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry-Materials Science from the Air Force Academy and a Master's in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle University. He was stationed in various locations worldwide, including South Korea, Italy, Alaska, Turkey, and Spain. Lehto's YouTube channel, "Lehto Files," focuses on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) research, future tech insights, and sharing knowledge. His approach is scientific and aims to illuminate these phenomena and provide informative content. He also shares his expertise on aviation safety and accident analysis. Lehto believes in the power of open dialogue and the importance of a censor-free internet. Lehto covers a range of topics, including: • Analysis of aviation accidents, such as the collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. • Identification of drones, drawing on his Air Force security forces experience. • Insights into Alternate Physics - promoting his Fractal Holographic Universe Theory • Discussions of UAPs and related topics. • Insights into space exploration, including his experience at the launch of SpaceX's Starship SN25. #KhafrePyramid #GizaMysteries #AncientEgyptJoin this channel for exclusive access: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVNKdkLzWuy1oLuCuCv4NCA/joinFollow on social X: https://x.com/LehtoFiles TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lehtofilesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090658513954Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lehto_files/reels/ Support the channel and get exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/chrislehto Invest in UAP Society NFTs! Each UAPSociety NFT grants early/ad-free access to all LehtoFiles videos- https://opensea.io/collection/uapeezSharing my referral link for when you order your Tesla. You'll get 500 € off the purchase of a Tesla product. https://www.tesla.com/referral/christopher39105 Donate eth to: chrislehto.eth full ETH address is 0x26E3c9b2A5E5b6B7FB54f5F0120B0E4840EB7B24Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lehto-files-investigating-uaps--5990774/support.

Earth's spin could power the future—and Giza might've done it first! In March 2025, Princeton's breakthrough pulled free electricity from Earth's rotation—17-18 microvolts, no fuel, just spin (465 m/s at the equator, 402 m/s at Giza) vs. a static magnetic field. What's Earth pushing against? Modern physics flops: “mass has inertia,” no why. My Mach-aether theory says it's cosmic pull, not spacetime. Scale this up—limitless energy! Then, Giza's 2025 radar find: 648-m wells, 80-m cubes. Ancient generators? True north since 2580 BC—spin's the key. Redshift's drag, no dark BS—just aether. Subscribe for more!Links: Princeton Paper 2016: https://link.aps.org/accepted/10.1103/PhysRevApplied.6.0140172025 Paper: https://journals.aps.org/prresearch/pdf/10.1103/PhysRevResearch.7.013285 Chris Lehto is a former F-16 pilot with 18 years of experience in the Air Force. He managed multi-million dollar simulator contracts, was an Electronic Attack SME for the Aggressors (OPFOR), and commanded the US Detachment at TLP for NATO Fighter Pilot Training. Chris fought in Iraq for 5 months in 2006. He spent 3 years in Turkey as an exchange pilot and is fluent in Turkish. Chris is also a certified crash safety investigator, having investigated Air Force accidents for four years. Lehto has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry-Materials Science from the Air Force Academy and a Master's in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle University. He was stationed in various locations worldwide, including South Korea, Italy, Alaska, Turkey, and Spain. Lehto's YouTube channel, "Lehto Files," focuses on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) research, future tech insights, and sharing knowledge. His approach is scientific and aims to illuminate these phenomena and provide informative content. He also shares his expertise on aviation safety and accident analysis. Lehto believes in the power of open dialogue and the importance of a censor-free internet. Lehto covers a range of topics, including: • Analysis of aviation accidents, such as the collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. • Identification of drones, drawing on his Air Force security forces experience. • Insights into Alternate Physics - promoting his Fractal Holographic Universe Theory • Discussions of UAPs and related topics. • Insights into space exploration, including his experience at the launch of SpaceX's Starship SN25. #gizamysteries #freeenergy #ancientegyptJoin this channel for exclusive access: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVNKdkLzWuy1oLuCuCv4NCA/joinFollow on social X: https://x.com/LehtoFiles TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lehtofilesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090658513954Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lehto_files/reels/ Support the channel and get exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/chrislehto Invest in UAP Society NFTs! - https://opensea.io/collection/uapeezSharing my referral link for when you order your Tesla. You'll get 500 € off the purchase of a Tesla product. https://www.tesla.com/referral/christopher39105Donate eth to: chrislehto.eth full ETH address is 0x26E3c9b2A5E5b6B7FB54f5F0120B0E4840EB7B24Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lehto-files-investigating-uaps--5990774/support.

Did Metatron debunk the wild Giza SAR scans showing structures 648 meters deep—or did I debunk him? I'm diving into the March 2025 conference, the science behind vibration-enhanced radar, and a corridor prediction that came true. Facts, footage, and a friendly showdown—let's uncover the truth!Link to Metatron's video: This Former F16 Pilot Claims He Debunked my video on the Pyramids of Giza https://youtu.be/LsnWoTE4-Xo?si=lsgVcZbD2F5f4XRlChris Lehto is a former F-16 pilot with 18 years of experience in the Air Force. He managed multi-million dollar simulator contracts, was an Electronic Attack SME for the Aggressors (OPFOR), and commanded the US Detachment at TLP for NATO Fighter Pilot Training. Chris fought in Iraq for 5 months in 2006. He spent 3 years in Turkey as an exchange pilot and is fluent in Turkish. Chris is also a certified crash safety investigator, having investigated Air Force accidents for four years. Lehto has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry-Materials Science from the Air Force Academy and a Master's in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle University. He was stationed in various locations worldwide, including South Korea, Italy, Alaska, Turkey, and Spain. Lehto's YouTube channel, "Lehto Files," focuses on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) research, future tech insights, and sharing knowledge. His approach is scientific and aims to illuminate these phenomena and provide informative content. He also shares his expertise on aviation safety and accident analysis. Lehto believes in the power of open dialogue and the importance of a censor-free internet. Lehto covers a range of topics, including: • Analysis of aviation accidents, such as the collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. • Identification of drones, drawing on his Air Force security forces experience. • Insights into Alternate Physics - promoting his Fractal Holographic Universe Theory • Discussions of UAPs and related topics. • Insights into space exploration, including his experience at the launch of SpaceX's Starship SN25. #ChrisLehtoJoin this channel for exclusive access: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVNKdkLzWuy1oLuCuCv4NCA/join Follow on social X: https://x.com/LehtoFilesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lehtofiles Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090658513954Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lehto_files/reels/Support the channel and get exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/chrislehto Invest in UAP Society NFTs! https://opensea.io/collection/uapeezSharing my referral link for when you order your Tesla. You'll get 500 € off the purchase of a Tesla product. https://www.tesla.com/referral/christopher39105Donate eth to: chrislehto.eth full ETH address is 0x26E3c9b2A5E5b6B7FB54f5F0120B0E4840EB7B24Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lehto-files-investigating-uaps--5990774/support.

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Jeff Martinovich is a seasoned business advisor, entrepreneur, and U.S. Air Force veteran with a background in finance, leadership, and strategic growth. A former Gulf War officer, he went on to build a billion-dollar investment firm, gaining firsthand experience in high-performance leadership and navigating complexity under pressure. After a highly public legal battle that reshaped his views on resilience and integrity, Jeff now channels his experience into helping leaders grow with purpose and clarity. As a partner at ASH Business Advisory, he works alongside fellow Air Force Academy grads to support early-stage and mid-market companies through capital, executive support, and operational strategy. He's the author of When Not If, a Forbes Books bestseller on leading through adversity, and speaks nationally on business growth, accountability, and principled leadership. Today, Jeff is focused on helping entrepreneurs lead with confidence, scale intentionally, and build businesses that make a lasting impact. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Jeff about: From Billion-Dollar Firm to Prison: Jeff's journey from leading a billion-dollar investment firm to facing incarceration. Turning Time Into Opportunity:  How Jeff studied law behind bars and earned early release from a 14-year sentence. Purpose-Driven Business: Helping small companies grow through Ash Business Advisory. Hard-Earned Wisdom: Authoring two books to share lessons from failure, redemption, and rebuilding. Championing Founders: Jeff now mentors entrepreneurs, offering strategic guidance to help them grow with clarity and integrity. Timestamps: 01:00 Jeff's Background Before 2012 02:07 The Crazy Story Begins 05:38 Surviving Prison and Helping Others 08:50 Life After Prison 12:39 Lessons Learned and Business Ventures 15:55 The Power of Sharing Stories Connect with Jeffrey: LinkedIn Email: jam@jeffmartinovich.com https://www.jeffmartinovich.com/ If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Apple Podcasts Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Jeff for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01

Veterans are once again dominating Congress. The start of the 119th Congress has 100 Veterans across both sides of the aisle. Veterans by and large focus on teamwork and getting results. To kick off the excitement behind the new Congress, Fran Racioppi spent a few snowy days on Capitol Hill with the members of the For Country Caucus; a bi-partisan group of House of Representative members who have each served across America's military. Representative Don Davis is an Air Force Academy graduate, a two term Congressman representing North Carolina's 1st District, and the Vice Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, as well as a member of the Subcommittee on Readiness and the Subcommittee on Tactical Air and Land Forces. With the strength of American military power front and center, Fran asked Congressman Davis to explain just what the next battlefield may be, how ready the American military is to combat both terrorist organizations and near-peer nation states, as well as the role of Special Operations in the next conflict. They also broke down the efforts of DOGE, Elon Musk and the application of the age old military sayings “slow is smooth, smooth is fast” and “speed and violence of action” gets things done. Watch, listen or read our conversation from Congressman Davis's office. Don't miss our full coverage from Capitol Hill. Special thanks to For Country Caucus for setting up this series. HIGHLIGHTS0:00 Introduction2:05 Welcome to Capitol Hill4:02 Veterans leading Congress8:37 Expectations of Veterans in the Cabinet10:51 Joining the Air Force15:04 Joining State Politics before Federal Politics21:37 Military Readiness24:07 The Next Conflict28:28 Defining the battlefield30:43 The Terror Threat33:28 Investing in Special Operations36:01 Trump Administration actionsQUOTES“When the orders came down we didn't ask, ‘are these Democratic orders or Republican orders.' We executed the mission.”“The fundamental basis of that oath is to protect the constitution.” “What I think was most important going back to eastern North Carolina was an opportunity to really shape future leaders.”“There's these potholes people are craving to be filled.”“When there is a mission…are we capable?”“We have to make sure the innocent civilians are kept safe.”“Clearly there's a willingness to target us.”“Don't bet against America.”“At the end of the day try to make life better in communities.”The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs. Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform, read on our website, and watch the full video version on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.The opinions presented on the The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are the opinions of guests and host Fran Racioppi. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Green Beret Foundation and the Green Beret Foundation assumes no liability for their accuracy, nor does Green Beret Foundation endorse any political candidate or any political party.

FOLLOW RICHARD Website: https://www.strangeplanet.ca YouTube: @strangeplanetradio  Instagram:@richardsyrettstrangeplanet TikTok: @syrettstrangeplanet   SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! HIMS - Making Healthy and Happy Easy to Achieve Sexual Health, Hair Loss, Mental Health, Weight Management START YOUR FREE ONLINE VISIT TODAY - HIMS dot com slash STRANGE https://www.HIMS.com/strange   BECOME A PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER!!!  https://strangeplanet.supportingcast.fm Three monthly subscriptions to choose from. Commercial Free Listening, Bonus Episodes and a Subscription to my monthly newsletter, InnerSanctum. Visit https:strangeplanet.supportingcast.fm Use the discount code "Planet" to receive one month off the first subscription. We and our partners use cookies to personalize your experience, to show you ads based on your interests, and for measurement and analytics purposes. By using our website and services, you agree to our use of cookies as described in our Cookie Policy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices     1184 UFOs, Nukes, and the Malmstrom Mystery Unveiled   Picture this: March 1967, Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana. Ten nuclear missiles—each a harbinger of apocalyptic power—go dark as a pulsating, crimson craft hovers silently above. For Robert Salas, then a missile launch officer, this wasn't a drill or a glitch; it was a confrontation with the unknown. In this gripping episode, Richard speaks with Robert Salas who pulls back the curtain on the Malmstrom Incident, a night that fused UFOs and nuclear stakes into a chilling enigma. From the tense control room to his decades-long quest for answers, he reveals what he told the Pentagon's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) and why their “no evidence” stance rings hollow. Are these unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs) warning us, watching us, or wielding power we can't fathom? With Congress eyeing new hearings and whispers of global UAP-nuclear encounters growing louder, Salas unpacks the stakes: a truth that could redefine humanity's place in the cosmos—or expose a cover-up too vast to crack. Expect raw firsthand testimony, provocative theories, and a journey into the abyss where science fiction meets stark reality. This isn't just a story—it's a wake-up call from the edge of existence.   GUEST: Robert Salas, U.S. Air Force Academy '64, served as a missile launch officer at Malmstrom AFB, witnessing a 1967 UFO incident that disabled nuclear missiles. After a career in aerospace and the FAA, he's authored Faded Giant, Unidentified , and UAPs and the Nuclear Puzzle: Visitations, National Security, and the Need for Transparency advocating for UFO disclosure globally.   Robert Salas will be speaking at CONTACT IN THE DESERT - May 29th to June 2nd, 2025. Fore more information or to order tickets visit https://contactinthedesert.com   WEBSITE: https://spiralgalaxy.org   BOOKS: Faded Giant Unidentified UAPs and the Nuclear Puzzle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://strangeplanet.supportingcast.fm/

Today the Late Crew discusses how Boeing's Starliner may fly again (04:47), Booz Allen unveils ‘Brilliant Swarms' satellite concept for missile defense (12:05), those ‘Hegseth bodyguards' are actually there for the ‘Doomsday' plane (22:52), how Ranger School is scrapping traditional pushups and situps for functional fitness test (29:05), a proposal to tie soldiers' promotions more to job proficiency (38:44), and the creation of the Air Force Academy on 1 April 1954 (50:59).

Jake DeRuyter, a 2015 Air Force Academy graduate, shares a compelling leadership journey marked by unexpected challenges and resilient adaptation. ----more---- SUMMARY Initially aspiring to be a pilot, Jake faced a critical moment when back surgery disqualified him from his dream career, forcing him to quickly choose a new Air Force Specialty Code within just one hour. Despite the uncertainty, he remained calm and strategic, ultimately transitioning to intelligence and then to an ROTC instructor role. His leadership philosophy emerged from these experiences: staying flexible, maintaining a strong network, and focusing on developing others rather than just personal advancement.   SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN | FACEBOOK   JAKE'S LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS  - Always be willing to adapt and stay resilient when unexpected challenges arise, like Jake did when he couldn't become a pilot and had to quickly choose a new career path.  - Build and maintain a strong network of connections, as these relationships can help you navigate career transitions and provide support.  - Focus on developing the people around you, not just your own career advancement. A great leader lifts up their team and helps others grow.  - Stay proactive in reaching out to people, checking in, and genuinely listening to their stories and experiences.  - Be willing to take risks on talented individuals, especially those from similar backgrounds or networks, like how Jake was given an opportunity by fellow graduates.  - Maintain a competitive spirit and drive, but channel it into continuous self-improvement and supporting others.  - Give back to your community, whether through mentoring, volunteering, or leading local chapters and organizations.  - Be prepared to put in consistent daily effort, understanding that success comes from habits and persistent hard work.  - Stay open to unexpected opportunities and be willing to pivot when your initial career path doesn't work out.  - Prioritize relationships and connections over individual achievements, recognizing that your success is often measured by the people you've helped develop.   JAKE'S TOP 5 LEADERSHIP LESSONS Here are the 5 best leadership lessons from Jake DeRuyter's interview:   Build Others Up, Not Just Yourself Jake emphasized that true leadership is about developing the people around you. As he said, "Don't just worry about your own career and life" - great leaders are judged by the success of those they mentor and support.   Stay Adaptable and Resilient When Jake's pilot career was unexpectedly derailed, he demonstrated the critical leadership skill of staying calm under pressure and quickly pivoting. He chose to focus on what he could control rather than getting stuck on what he couldn't change.   Maintain Genuine Connections Jake consistently stressed the importance of reaching out, checking in with people, and truly listening. He makes time to connect with classmates, colleagues, and fellow graduates, understanding that relationships are the foundation of effective leadership.   Take Calculated Risks and Support Others Jake's career trajectory shows the importance of being willing to take risks - both for yourself and for others. He was given a chance by fellow graduates and now pays it forward by helping other transitioning military members.   Give Back Consistently Leadership isn't just about personal achievement, but about contributing to your community. Jake exemplifies this through his role as chapter president, mentoring cadets, and always being available to help fellow Air Force Academy graduates.   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00  Introduction to Leadership Journeys 05:31  Navigating Life's Crossroads 12:01  The Role of Mentorship and Family 17:31  Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 20:48  Motivation and Personal Drive 22:02  The Daily Grind: A Shift in Focus 24:31  Building Community: Chapter Leadership 27:29 Challenges of Leadership and Engagement 29:00 Giving Back: The Importance of Community 31:12  Leadership Lessons: Daily Practices 32:53  Advice for Aspiring Leaders 34:25  Reflections on Involvement and Connection 36:40  Final Thoughts and Gratitude   ABOUT JAKE BIO As a 2015 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Jake spent six years on active duty serving as an Intel Officer and ROTC Instructor. Having left the service, he now am an Account Executive on the Air Force team at IMPRES Technology Solutions providing active duty units with the tech they need to accomplish the mission. - Copy courtesy of Jake DeRuyter and LinkedIn   CONNECT WITH JAKE LINKEDIN  |  ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES - CENTRAL TEXAS CHAPTER     ALL PAST LBL EPISODES  |  ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS     FULL TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS GUEST, JAKE DERUYTER '15  |  HOST, LT. COL. (RET.) NAVIERE WALKEWICZ '99   Naviere Walkewicz  00:00 Welcome to Long Blue Leadership, the podcast where we share insights on leadership through the lives and experiences of Air Force Academy graduates. I'm Naviere Walkewicz, Class of '99. My guest today is Jake DeRuyter, Class of '15, currently an account executive with Impress Technology and the president of the Central Texas Chapter of the Association of Graduates, quite possibly our youngest graduate to do so. He is second-generation Air Force following his father, a graduate from the Class of '85, and uncle, Class of '87 from our Air Force Academy, the only school that he applied to after high school. We'll talk about those things, Jake's leadership journey and a particular crossroad he arrived at when he had one hour to decide his entire life. Jake, welcome to Long Blue Leadership, and I'd like to dive right in: One hour to decide your entire life. What's that about?   Jake DeRuyter  01:22 Yeah, so my second semester, first year, I was dealing with some pretty significant back issues, and didn't realize how just how severe it was. So I'm in the flight dock. It was either the Monday the week before or the week of graduation, and the doctor's like, “Hey, you're gonna need back surgery to remove the bulging disc in your back.” I'm like, “OK, great. I can barely walk, so sign me up. Whatever you can do make me feel better.” And they're like, “Well, you're not gonna be able to keep your pilot slot if you proceed with the surgery.” And I'm not gonna lie and say it was my end all dream to be a pilot, but you go through all four years thinking you're gonna fly, you're pretty fired up for it, we're a week away from graduation, and then it's like, hey, the rug is just pulled. But I had to make a decision right there where it's like, “Hey, I'd rather be able to walk and be pain free than fly.” And so that was a pretty easy decision at that point. And then the next part is, what you alluded to, is where things got a little tricky. So being just a couple days before walking across the stage and saluting the secretary of the Air Force, I'm like, “So what's my job going to be?” I don't even know what else is available in the Air Force. I didn't have to focus on this.” And they're like, “Well, I'm just the flight doc. Go talk to the personnel office over in Vandy, and they'll get you taken care of.” So, I walk — or hobble — on over there, And I'm like, “Hey, Jake DeRuyter, I told the flight doc to give y'all a call, you know, to get me a new job. What's my life look like? What are we doing next?” And she just goes, “Well, there was a big missileer crisis, and we're really desperate for missileers. So, you're gonna be missiles now.” And I'm just, like — my jaw dropped.   Naviere Walkewicz Not what you expected to hear.   Jake DeRuyter  Not what I wanted and like, not to downplay missiles, just not what I wanted to join the Air Force to do, right? That's... I'm just like, standing there in shock. And she's like, “Are you OK?” And I'm like, “I kind of want to jump off my room on top of Vandy, but you know, it's gonna be fine. Do I get some preferences? Do I have any say in this?” Just assigning that to kind of seems aggressive. She goes, “Well, I guess I can take your preferences down.” And I'm just like, “Why didn't you lead with that? That would have been great.” And so she's like, “Well, I need to submit these right now. So, what do you want to do?” I'm like, “Well, what are my options? I don't even know what other AFSC's there are.” So, that becomes a very frantic hour of me calling all my teachers. I was a management major — I highly recommend that. One of the best decisions of my life was going through the management department. And I call my teachers and they're like, “Hey, stick with something business related, like contracting, acquisitions, finance. If you put one of those three down, you're guaranteed to do it.” I'm like, “OK, sweet. Sounds like it sure bets on me. Like, that, sounds easy enough.” but they made you put down five. And, you know, you always hear the horror stories where if you don't put down something, it defaults to the needs of the Air Force, right? So I think I put down like PA, just because I was like, “There's no way they'll pick me for that. There's barely any PA officers.” And I, for the life of me, couldn't tell you what I put in the fifth spot. And so, I walk out of there kind of dejected. I'm like, “Man, my whole life just changed in the span of an hour. No idea what the next— I don't know where I'm gonna be living. I don't know what my job's gonna be like. What in the world's going on?” So, the next day we're all sitting in one of those final briefings, you know, “Hey, here's how you PCS. Here's how you do XYZ.” Right? As the meeting's about to kick off, that same tech sergeant — God, I'd give her a big hug now — she walks up to me with some paperwork and says, “Congratulations, sir.” And I'm looking at her like the person just told me my life was over the day before, so I'm not exactly happy to see this person. And then I look at the paper, and it just says, “Goodfellow Air Force Base.” I had no idea where in the world that was, what job that was or anything. I just knew it wasn't Vandenberg for missileer training. So I just look at her and go, “I'm not missiles?” She's like, “You're not missiles.” I stand up, give her a big old hug. You know, they're trying to start a briefing. They're like, “Sir, please sit down for...” “Sorry, I'm too happy right now.” So yeah, that started me off on my journey to San Angelo, Texas, which I didn't really know what I was getting into there, but, yeah, going intel kind of led me to where I am now in life. And looking back on it now, all the crazy things that happened, it put me where I am now, and so, I'm very thankful for the things and how they all ended up and put me in a position where I can give back to the community now and really serve the Air Force and fellow grads in a much better capacity than I ever could have while on active duty.   Naviere Walkewicz  05:30 Well, it's so interesting because, you know, you think about the Air Force Academy as a place where they teach you to be able to make decisions on the fly, or to make the best calculated decision you can at the time.What leadership lessons do you think you called upon in that frantic moment of well, not only can you not be a pilot now because we're going to have this surgery, but now you have to pick an AFSC. What do you think you drew upon to guide you through that in a kind of a leadership manner?   Jake DeRuyter  06:02 Yeah, the biggest thing was just staying calm and realizing,  OK, whatever happens, happens, I can't change the past. I can only deal with the information given, and push forward. I could sit there and get upset with myself or upset at the world, but that doesn't do anything. It's like, “All right, how do we take action?? How we take that next step to get over this?” Because you want to be in control of your life as much as possible, going forward, right? And choosing your AFSC, arguably, is probably one of the biggest things you could possibly choose in life, next to your spouse and things like that. And that determines, however, what your entire Air Force career is going to be. So yeah, doing that in the hour was definitely very frantic. But, one of the biggest things I really pride myself on, and really want to encourage others is the connections you make throughout your Academy experience, through active duty, in your life — those are the people that are going to help you in those dark times, those tough times. And lean on those people. And the only way you can lean on them is if you prove to them that they can lean on you when they need help, right? As that's one of the things I make a pillar in my life is, when those friends are in a dark time, I want to be the one that, “Hey, I'll be there for you.” That's always one thing I'm passionate about, and what I centered my leadership philosophy around.   Naviere Walkewicz  07:15 I love that. I think you just kind of hit on it, right? You have this network, and I imagine your family is part of that — your dad being a graduate. What role did he play in this moment in your life, and how did you navigate that with him?   Jake DeRuyter  07:30 Yeah, he was awesome, and he was a big reason why I went to the Academy. He always did a really good job of putting that as an option but not forcing it or not shoving it down my throat. And I was really thankful to him for the life me and my sister had growing up, and all the crazy places we moved to and everything. And I didn't really know what I wanted to do, as you hinted in the preview. I didn't apply anywhere else because I didn't really know what I wanted to do when I grew up. And he was like, “Hey, the Academy was always a great place, and worst case, they tell you what to do.” And he's like, “Hey, if you want a similar life to where you grew up, I attribute everything to that, and that's kind of what led me there.” So yeah, you better believe after calling my teachers to figure out what AFSC I should do, he was my next call to be like, “Hey, I knew you always wanted me to fly, but that's not working anymore. So what do you think?” So, he's been a tremendous help my entire life. I mean, I talk to him at least every week. So, yeah, huge help there.   Naviere Walkewicz  08:27 That's amazing. So you went on to be an intel officer, and what was that like? And then how did you decide that it was going to be time to move on to transitioning out of the military.   Jake DeRuyter  08:42 Yeah, so intel wasn't exactly a great fit for me, and what I was like trying to do. You know, when you're told your intel, I imagine— I knew nothing. So I'm like, “Oh, I'll be a spy. I'll be James Bond. I'll be the CIA. None of those were remotely true. So, I got stationed in San Antonio, Texas, for my first job, which was great. I love San Antonio. I worked with some amazing people. Our mission was a little funky. We were doing defensive cyber ops as it was kind of standing up. So, doing intel support for a mission that doesn't really know what they're doing is a little difficult at the time. Now, knock on wood, hopefully things have gotten a lot better since I was there, but building the plane as you're flying was our moniker that we would use. And so it was definitely challenging. And then a lot of it just felt like doing homework and giving briefings over and over again. So, you have a lot of hours in the SCIF doing researching on different cyber threats and then going and briefing the commanders. It was a cool job; I learned a ton. But it wasn't very fulfilling for me. I wanted to get out, be more helpful to other people and have more of a direct impact. And so that led me to teaching ROTC at Texas State, which was a great three years, and really kind of re-blued me. I loved that job. Can't recommend it enough for people that are looking to take a break from their career field. But then when they said, “Hey, you got to go back to intel,” that was my big decision, or my the point where I was like, “All right, I don't think an active-duty career is left in the cards for me. I'm gonna take my next step, moving on.”   Naviere Walkewicz  10:09 So, you even talked about before you decided to transition out of the Air Force, you had pivoted within your career field and took a temporary job outside of your career field as an ROTC instructor, and you said it re-blued. You talk about that and how did it grow you as a leader? I mean, what did you learn about yourself in that?   Jake DeRuyter  10:29 I learned that I really cared about the people more than the operational mission, and so, building up the people, building out the future lieutenants. Like, “Hey, that's how I can better serve the Air Force.” And the whole reason I got the job was because they had to give a waiver for me, because I was technically still a lieutenant, which was not allowed. But I was really upfront with my leadership and my intel job, and they knew I didn't love the career field and I wasn't really a good fit for that world. But they're like, “Hey, Jake's out, great at recruiting. He's good at getting people to go out and do things and help others. He'd be a natural fit there.” So they called all the ROTC leadership to vouch for me to get that job. And then one of the biggest things I took away is that when you go to the Academy, if you're in the Academy, you're in. You have a spot in the Air Force, assuming you pass all your classes, you don't get kicked out for X, Y, Z reasons, and then you'll have a job. ROTC is completely different. You could have 4.0, max your PT scores, be the perfect cadet. And then the Air Force decides, “Hey, we're only taking 40% this year,” which happened my second year in the job and we just had to lose half of our class. So, learning to deal with that rejection when there's nothing that you personally could have done was really challenging. And we had a ton of mentorship sessions with the cadets. “Hey, what are second, tertiary options?” Things like that. Kind of like what I did where it's like, “You're going to be— the doors will get slammed in your face over and over again in life. How do you respond to that, that resiliency and then that flexibility to adapt and overcome?” I mean, those are stuff I'll take with me for the rest of my life.   Naviere Walkewicz  12:01 Wow. And so you got to be a mentor in a way for those Air Force ROTC cadets, if they didn't get a slot, and kind of navigating. And then you found yourself in that seat when you decided to transition yourself, right?   Jake DeRuyter  12:14 Yeah. So, they were gonna send me to another intel role, and I had just met my wife at the time. We were gonna get married soon. I'm like, “Man, the time to deploy and kind of live the Air Force life isn't my main goal anymore, and so I tried to push out my separation date as long as possible, so I had time to do the job search and really see what else is out there. And I didn't really know what I wanted to be once again. But I was like, “Hey, I love living here in Austin, Texas. I figure I can get something tech related or sales related,” I'm kind of naturally inclined to both of those things. And one of my classmates, Keith Link,  he reached out to me because I host a big March Madness pool every year for a ton of grads. And he's like, “Hey, man, just started this role here. I think you'd be a great fit for the company. We're trying to build out our Air Force team. Our boss is a Navy grad. Would you be interested in interviewing us?” And then I was like, “Yeah, man, that sounds great.” You know, I'd still be working with the Air Force in a tech- slash sales-type role. I'm like, “Yeah, this is everything that I wanted. Sounds awesome…” having, once again, no idea I was getting into. But I go through the interview process and I'm trying to sell myself on SkillBridge, trying to get that free internship saying,  “Hey, I could be a free worker for y'all for a couple of months here.” I'm trying to sell myself. And at the end of the interview process, John Podolak, '88 Navy grad, I believe. He's like, “Jake, you've had a bunch of people vouch for you. I really believe in the grad network; it doesn't matter which Academy you went to.” He said, “Hey, if you're gonna come and do SkillBridge with us, I want you to know you have a job offer at the end of it.” And he handed me my job offer right there. I think we were four months out, so I was in shock. To this day I can't believe it. He took the risk on me that coming fresh in a completely separate career field, no background besides being able to speak Air Force. And it all goes back to our Long Blue Line. I don't know what Navy calls it, but it's a “Hey, we all have similar backgrounds.”   Naviere Walkewicz  14:17 Long Blue Navy Line, maybe? I'm not sure.   Jake DeRuyter  14:21 Yeah. He's like, “Hey, I know I could put trust in you because of your background, what you're all about.” and that's something that I really internalized and leading to my role now. It's like, “Hey, we'll give you the benefit of the doubt if you're a fellow grad,” right? Doesn't matter which Academy, you know? In particular, we're gonna favor the Air Force. But yeah, that's like, one thing I just really want to make a pillar of my life. Like I said earlier, it's like, hey, I want to help out fellow grads. Because if it wasn't for Keith and John taking a risk on me out of the blue, I wouldn't be where I am today.   Naviere Walkewicz  14:53 It seems like that's been a thread in your life. You know, finding a network and supporting and taking care of people, and then seeing that reciprocated to help continue to fuel what is important to you. Talk a little bit about what that transition was like, though, because it almost sounds too easy. I mean, has it been just rainbows since you kind of took that leap.   Jake DeRuyter  15:17 Oh, God, no. Year 1, any career field, especially, you know, a sales driven one, it's a challenge. You don't know what you're doing. You're fish out of water. I was going to a million different Air Force bases, walking on base, trying to meet people, not even knowing what I was doing, let alone convincing other people what we do. And so that was a challenge. I think I went to 19 different bases my first year; I was on a plane every chance I could get, just trying to make a name for myself and say, “Hey, I'm Jake DeRuyter, we can do anything help you. What do you need?” And people were always like, “Well, we don't need anything. Like, we want one specific thing. Can you do this?” And so you really kind of have to find yourself, because the Air Force, especially as an officer, you're leading a team, right? Or you're part of some overarching team. But in this role, when I started, it was me, myself and I. So that was just a huge lifestyle change. It was a little refreshing. That's like, “Hey, I don't have to worry about my cadets or my airmen outside of the job.” And this was a nice refresh. But like everything else, it's like, “Hey, I am the only one providing for my family, to pay the bills,” everything like that. Like, how hard am I going to work? And how am I going to put in the effort to grind day in and day out. Just getting good at any job, you can't just have one great day, just like working out. You can't just have one great day and expect to bench 500 pounds, right? It's the things that you do day in and day out and building up the right habits and having the right communication with people, and then just being relatable. One of the other biggest things: Say you're gonna do something and follow up and do it. We always joke that it's a weird that it's a skill to follow up with people and respond to them in a meaningful time. It shouldn't be, but that's just one of those things where people need help. We want to be the ones that are there. And it's just doing that over and over again. Because, man, that Year 1 was like, “Why did I pick this job? Why did I pick this career choice? I should have gone into consulting. I should have gotten started in literally anything else.” Thank God I stuck with it. It's, again, been one of the greatest decisions I've made, and we have an awesome team, but we've brought in a few other Academy grads with us as well, and it's been a lot of fun since.   Naviere Walkewicz  17:31 May I ask why you stuck with it when it and everything against in your core was, “Why did I do this? I could have picked anything else?” Why did you stay?   Jake DeRuyter  17:41 I really wanted to prove it to myself and really prove it to Keith and John. You know, they took the risk on me, so I didn't want to let them down. And I think that was the biggest thing, where it's like, “Hey, you guys took the risk on me out of the blue.” And I'm like— you know, Keith and I were classmates, you know, we were never close, right? Like, you know, we barely kept in touch over the years. And it's just like, “Hey, you stuck your name out.” Like, this is the real world, right? In the Air Force, if you want to do the full 20 years you can do 20 years, right? In the real world, it's “Hey, if you're not have a nice day.” You gotta find new employment. And so I was like, “I'm not gonna let you guys down. I'm gonna fight for this.” Being a small company, we're not a big name brand, right? No one knows who we are. So, it's a little bit that underdog mentality, and just like, “Hey, how am I gonna outhustle the next guy? How am I gonna outhustle XYZ company that's a competitor?” And it's just that competitive drive that I've just always had. I'm not playing sports every day anymore, but how do you still stay competitive and still stay active and still have that drive to be the best you can be, and go on and go forth?   Naviere Walkewicz  18:52 Well, it sounds like this competitive drive is something you said, it was something you've always had. Can you share a story from when you recall, when, gosh, even something, you know, back in early-Jake days that this is a moment I realized, “I'm a competitive person. I'm driven by this desire to prove myself.” Is there something that pops to mind? Because I can only just imagine if it was already part of your core when you kind of knew this about yourself?   Jake DeRuyter  19:18 Oh, yeah, I've got a good one. So, my dad was coaching with the Academy going into my junior year of high school, and his goal was always to get me all three years at one school, which we had at the time, we had never lived anywhere longer than three years in a row. So, that was a tough task. And I just finished up my junior year of playing football, and things were going good, and then he gets a job offer down in Texas, and he comes to me. He's like, “Hey, what do you think? I don't want to move you going into your senior year, but I want to talk to you first before, yeah, I make any decisions.” And I'm like, “Wait, I get the chance to play Texas high school football. Are you kidding me? Let's do this. I get one year for it. That's awesome.” So, yeah, that's the No. 1 story that comes to my mind where it's like, “Hey, I want to take the risk on myself and be competitive and go play the best of the best.”   Naviere Walkewicz  20:18 Play with the best of the best. And that does seem to be a theme, right? Air Force Academy, putting yourself out there, jumping in full feet into this new role. You know, what have you learned about yourself? You talked about motivating. It's different when you have people that you have to take care of, and I guess maybe your translation is your family you have to take care of. But how do you motivate yourself when it's a you, yourself and you — you said “me, myself, and I” and I couldn't think of the other way to say it. But when it's just you, what keeps you motivated?   Jake DeRuyter  20:52 Yeah, I'm definitely very externally motivated. So it's my team. When you want to talk about the Monday-through-Friday grind, and then my wife and, the overarching family, growing up, family has always been really close and a huge motivator for me. And, you know, I've just always wanted to be able to provide for others and provide for myself, and you never want to have to worry about that next meal, or the job, employment — things like that. And just saying, “Hey, you know, these opportunities you get there — don't take it for granted.” And it's like you've got to fight and earn everything. You're not just going to be handed out anything. And that's just something always back in my mind, where it's like, if I'm not doing it like somebody else is going to, I'm going to lose that opportunity, or someone's going to step in, right? And so it's just one thing where it's just being like the Academy grad, like you don't, we'll move up to the name brand. That's another huge thing I always have in my head. It's like, I want to represent the brand. Well, I'm like, “How do you do that?” Is because, like, we've all met those people. It's like, hey man, like, you know, like, shoot. Like, “I really like you, but like, I don't think you represent us. Well, I never want to be that type of person, right? And so that's one of those things I just really like the kitchen, going day in and day out.   Naviere Walkewicz  22:01 So the daily grind… You said, in the first year you think you visited like 19 bases just to try and figure it out. What does the daily grind look like now?   Jake DeRuyter  22:10 Completely changed, thankfully, I really only focus on three, which still has me plenty busy, but at least I'm not in all these crazy places, which is nice. Now it's weird because I set my own schedule. No one's ever asking, “Hey, you got to be here at 7:30 and clock out at 4:30.” It's a complete polar oppositie of the Air Force. Like, if I want to go golf every Friday at noon, no one's stopping me from doing that, except for, that'd probably be a detriment to my team and our success, right? And so it's this complete mindset change where it's like, “Hey, I'm going to still put in a full day's work and get everything I can out of the day.” But I'm not sitting down at my desk. So when I'm home, I'm following up with teams making sure everything is good internally at the company, and then a lot of the time I'm on the road. So, I go to Eglin Air Force Base a lot, Hill Air Force Base and Edwards. Those are my three where I'm constantly rotating through. So, if anyone's at those bases, please let me know. Love to reach out to you guys, grab a beer, dinner or anything. You know, it's a lot of lonely nights in the hotel. So, every chance I get to meet up with fellow grads, see what else is going on — I love taking advantage of that opportunity. I've done that numerous times, and that's one of my favorite things and one of my favorite parts of the job. So, I don't know what a standard day looks like for me. That's one thing I love about this job. And kind of why I stuck with it, so I'm never bored. No day is the same. You're always finding a new opportunity, someone new to talk to, some new base, a new program, that there's infinite possibilities. It's such a big Air Force and it gives me a chance to stay involved with our community, give back, and just, hey, if there's another grad out there that's looking to separate and needs a job, any grad — I've offered this plenty of times and stepped through it — any grad that's trying to separate, you have an instant interview at a minimum, with us right away. Please reach out anytime.   Naviere Walkewicz  24:03 That's amazing. I think you know you talk about there is no standard, but maybe you actually... the standard is that you hold yourself to a standard so that you're seeking opportunities when they're there, you're prepared, and you're trying to connect with other grads and make ways for them as well, or at least a potential opportunity. Let's talk about that, because I find— you know, you're a 2015 graduate, you're in your career trajectory, and you've made time to become the chapter president for the Central Texas chapter. And, you know, chapter services, that's when you bring grads together. I don't know how you manage that, as well as build a business. Let's talk about that. How did that even happen?   Jake DeRuyter  24:43 Yeah, so Mike Lambert started our chapter. He's a '70 grad, one of the coolest, most informative, just unique individuals. He is the greatest guy. Now, I wish I could live half the life that he has when I get to be his age. I reached out to him a couple years ago now saying, “Hey, the baseball team's in town playing UT, we have plans to all go to it, like, what's going on? Because I, this is bad on me... I didn't know that the chapter existed at the time. And he's like, “Oh shoot. I didn't know about it. Yeah, that sounds great. I'll send out a message, let's start rallying people to go as a big group.” I think we got maybe 20 to 30 people. It's a decent showing. And then after he's like, “Hey, I'm looking to pass this on to somebody. Would you be interested in it?” And I'm like, “Yeah, of course. I don't really know what it entails.” And then without me kind of having a say in it, everyone there is like, “Oh, hey, let's all have a vote right now. Raise your hand if you want Jake s the next president,” and Neil Wendt, Harry Keyes, a bunch of other grads were there all raising hands, like, “Hey, here's our new president.” So, yeah, I mean, I definitely wanted it, not like I didn't have a say in it, but yeah, it was nice having that little motivational push from everybody else. And then Neil Wendt, he's been my VP, and almost had a year going just now, so we still got a lot of work to do. We're still building a lot of things, but we're pretty proud of the steps that we've taken to kind of build this community. But yeah, it's definitely tough. You got work and then home life, and then family, and then you're just like, “Oh shoot, I still got to do this.” So, I mean, we all got a million things on a plate, so just like the Academy teaches you, how do you put 25 hours into a 24-hour day?   Naviere Walkewicz  26:18 Right? So I found that curious, what you'd mentioned. You said, “I didn't even know we had a chapter,” but you reached out to Mike Lambert. So did you already have a mentor-mentee relationship with him, or how did you know him?   Jake DeRuyter  26:29 No, I heard about it a little bit before that, because I kind of, in the back of my head, knew it existed. I just didn't know what all entailed. And it didn't say Austin. It just said to Central Texas. So, I didn't really know what all it meant. And then meeting with him and getting involved with him, and all in the whole group that he's started and been a part of for a long time. Yeah, it's really cool hearing their stories. And we do a monthly lunch every Friday or every first Friday of the month, and we get to hear all the cool war stories and everything. It's honestly one of the things I look forward to most every month is listening in to those guys. There's just so many funny connections all over the place. And, yeah, it's awesome. If anyone's listening in Austin, we'll be doing it again next week, or the first Friday this upcoming month of April.   Naviere Walkewicz  27:13 That's wonderful. So talk a little bit about what it's been like being the chapter president. You know, I think when we think about times at the Academy, you're leading a group of your peers, and obviously these peers are various years. But what has that been like, and what have you seen to be challenging so far?   Jake DeRuyter  27:29 Yeah, so it's completely different than on active duty, because you have positional power, right? And your airmen, the younger officers, they've got to listen to you, right? The chapter president sounds cool. Like, what authority do I have? Right? Absolutely nothing. It's just more of I'm the one coordinating and leading the charge, right? So you got to be the one to say what you're going to do and actually follow through and do it. And that's tough when you've got a million other competing priorities, and you're always trying to schedule your time and so I've been thankful I've had a great team. There's been times I can't make that monthly lunch and your others fill in. So we've had a pretty good core group there. But trying to find ways to motivate people to participate is extremely difficult unless they have like a direct buy in or impact or return on their investment. I think I saw in our last AOG election, we had like a 22% voting rate. And so we see that at the local chapters too, where it's tough finding people, so I'll go on LinkedIn, just trolling, just looking for anyone that says Air Force Academy grad, outside of any major city in Texas besides Austin. So, trying to get that direct touch. But it definitely takes time and effort and you've got to be willing to show that you're willing to go forth and put it in. Otherwise everyone's gonna be like, “Hey, I'm just getting another spam email. Why would I listen to this?”   Naviere Walkewicz  28:43 Right? And I just find it even more just impressive. What compelled you to reach out in the first place and say, “Hey, I'd like to get more involved?” Because you were already doing all these things through your job. So why the additional responsibility?   Jake DeRuyter  29:00 I think that's a great question. I think it's just because… You said: I was already doing it, and so I was like, “Hey, this is a natural fit for what I enjoy doing and what I could truly care about.” And as we've mentioned, all those grads in the past have helped me out and made me who I am today. You know from my dad and  my teachers, the officers that are ahead of me. It's like, “Hey, how do I give back?” Because I know I wouldn't be standing where I am without our fellow grads and then the whole overarching community. So it's like, “What little can I do to make one person's life that 1% better?” I'll take that chance any day of the week.   Naviere Walkewicz  29:33 Well, we talked about some of the challenges you've experienced and your deep desire to give back. So, share a success that you've had since being chapter president, and what's really kind of filled your bucket in this giving back piece.   Jake DeRuyter  29:44 Oh, so we did a watch party for the Air Force/Army game; that's pretty standard chapter president stuff like, “Oh, hey, you threw a watch party.” That's not the big thing. But the really cool part was the people that showed up. And I feel horrible. I forget his name right now, but the oldest living graduate, he had his daughter drive him because, “Hey, I'm not going to miss this.” And so I was like, whoa. Like, that was like...   Naviere Walkewicz  30:13 I'm going to look that up myself. That's amazing.   Jake DeRuyter  30:16 Having that moment like, “Wow, that's really cool.” Where it's like, “Hey, that wouldn't have happened without the work of my team  putting this together. And, yeah, putting together watch parties is nothing crazy. But it's still— hearing those stories and meeting those people that were there when this first started. Like, we were joking earlier: They don't even know what Founders Day is because they were there for it. That wasn't really a thing for them. Now it's like our annual celebration, but to them it's just like, “Oh yeah. We just started it.” Like, that's just how...   Naviere Walkewicz  30:48 ...on the shoulders of giants, right?   Jake DeRuyter  Yes.   Naviere Walkewicz  Jake, it just sounds like you had such an incredible ride so far. And I know you're you know your journey is in the midst of it, and I can't wait to hear how you'll continue to do so as a graduate, as we support you. But right now, I'd like to ask you some specific leadership lessons, the first one really pertaining to you: What do you do every day to be a better leader?   Jake DeRuyter  31:12 That reach out. Like, always that checking in. I don't necesarilly schedule it, but if I ever have 20 or 30, minutes, nothing's on my calendar for work, or things are slow, it's like, “Hey, who haven't I talked to in a while?” Whether it's one of my classmates, one of my freshmen, one of the people that served with me… And then I spend a lot of time on the road, so, I'm driving. I always try to reach out and call and reconnect with people that you haven't talked to in X amount of months. Because I always know that I really appreciate when I always hear from people like that. And so that's like one thing I always want to do is like, “Hey, what's going on in life? Where are you at now?” That's what's so cool about the Air Force community as a whole: People are moving, doing cool new jobs all over the place. So, I love getting to hear those stories and truly listening in. The leadership question: Actually listen. Take interest and don't just be waiting to say what you want to say next. Like, actually, like, “Oh, hey, there's some pretty cool stories out there. And people are doing some amazing, unique things.” Shoot, look at Wyatt Hendrickson this weekend. One of the greatest college sports upsets of all time.   Naviere Walkewicz  32:19 Of all time — 100%. I think that's a really great way— just even like rallying together and talking about that. I mean, what a great way to… “Hey, I haven't talked to you in a while. Did you see Wyatt? What he did? You know, it's just amazing.   Jake DeRuyter  32:32 Yep, exactly. Wyatt, if you're ever in Austin, drinks are on me, man, congrats.   Naviere Walkewicz  32:38 That's outstanding. All right, so tell me, then, Jake, what would you share as something that an aspiring leader can do every day? So, that's something you do personally. What might you share with an aspiring leader that they can do today that will reap benefits down the road?   Jake DeRuyter  32:53 Yeah, don't just worry about your own career and your own life, because whether you look at officers, coaches— a lot of people can be judged based on the people that they've built up rather than their own career. We see that all the time in coaching, and it's like, if you're truly worried about the development of the guys around you, you're going to build up yourself and your whole team and everybody and so make that the primary goal. Not just, “Hey, how do I get that next job? How do I get that next rank?” Because people are going to spot that as being phony really quick. So, be genuine, and pump up the other ones around you. Because a rising tide lifts all ships.   Naviere Walkewicz  33:27 Gosh. And like I said, you're kind of in this rise in your career and in your life. You know, if you were to look back and talk to your younger self, Jake, whether your cadet self or even your child self, is there any advice you would give yourself, knowing what you know today?   Jake DeRuyter  33:44 Yeah, the biggest thing is be more involved. I think especially as a cadet and in early officer life, I was just like, “How do I get through the day? What do I do to get through class, or to get through the SCIF life?” Or something like that. “How do I get to the part of life where I'm spending time with my friends, or having fun?” I definitely wish I was much more involved at the Academy and as a young lieutenant, like, I definitely took things for granted back then, and that's probably the biggest thing I changed, is like, “Hey, I definitely had the extra time.” I could have given back more at that time, and maybe I'm trying to make up for a little bit for that now.   Naviere Walkewicz  34:19 Well, I think it's never too late to start. And what are you doing now that fills your bucket in that way?   Jake DeRuyter  34:25 Oh, yeah, the biggest things, the AOG chapter presidency and helping other grads transition. I can't tell you how many fellow grads I've talked to as they're looking for SkillBridge, trying to figure out what that next step looks like. It doesn't stop. Everyone's hitting their five years coming up. It happens every year, right? So there's always that influx, especially those that aren't flying. It's tough making that jump. You know, it's a scary world out there. And I said, it's just you, yourself and I. Whatever the opposite of that is. It's like, “Hey, I know I didn't feel like I had the resources when I was initially getting out through traditional means of the Air Force.” So I want to be that person that's like, “Hey, I'll offer that olive branch anytime.” So yeah, love to help out wherever I can.   Naviere Walkewicz  35:13 Well, those connections are so important, and I think one of the things I really appreciate about you, Jake, is really recognizing that connection. I think you even shared with me a story, and maybe you can share it here, about how you still are in touch with your sponsor family?   Jake DeRuyter  35:26 Yeah. I went to high school in the Springs for a little bit, and the best man in my wedding, his family was the one that sponsored me. So, they had sponsored cadets for years, sponsoring the basketball team through the 2000s. Then in high school, he made me a bet. He's like, “Hey, you idiot, if there's any way that you get in, I'll sponsor.” He's like, “I'm done sponsoring cadets, but if you make it in, you'll be my last one.”   Naviere Walkewicz  And so you were the exception for him.   Jake DeRuyter  Yeah, I was the exception to the rule. So yeah, we still get together every year to go to the opening round of March Madness. So we just did Lexington, Kentucky, for those games, and then next year we'll be doing Tampa. So yeah, college sports and that competition that you talked about that's a huge center piece of my life, and I center all my travel and my fun around it. So yeah, they've been awesome, and a huge part of why I am or where I am today as well.   Naviere Walkewicz  36:11 I love that. Well, we're going to ask for Jake's final thoughts next, but before we do, I'd like to take a moment and thank you for listening to Long Blue Leadership. The podcast publishes Tuesdays in both video and audio and is available on all your favorite podcast platforms. Be sure to stay in touch. Watch, subscribe and listen to all episodes of Long Blue Leadership at longblueleadership.org. All right, Jake, we're ready to hear your final thoughts. It's been incredible spending time with you today.   Jake DeRuyter  36:39 I appreciate it Naviere. Very humbled to be here. You just had Secretary Wilson. I'm sure you've had some astronauts and generals on here, so the fact that you picked me: I was just like, “Man, that really means a lot.” So I just want to say thank you. Yeah, I don't want to repeat myself too much, but yeah, any fellow grads, if you're ever in the Austin area, love to meet up, grab a beer, whatever we can do to help each other out. Just whatever we can do to give back to the Long Blue Line.   Naviere Walkewicz  37:03 Well, thank you for never being too busy for our graduates. I think that was one of the things that really stood out to me throughout everything you've shared, is you know, you care about people, and it's really translated to how you care about our fellow graduates, and I can't wait to see all the amazing things you'll continue to do. So thanks for being a leader in our Long Blue Line.   Jake DeRuyter  37:22 Yeah, I appreciate that, Naviere. Thank you so much.   Naviere Walkewicz  37:25 Well, Jake, one more time, thank you again, and I'm Naviere Walkewicz, thank you for joining us on Long Blue Leadership until next time.   KEWORDS Resilience, Adaptability, Mentorship, Network, Long Blue Line, Leadership, Development, Career Transition, Service, Community Support, Grit, Connections, Risk-Taking, Personal Growth, Military to Civilian Transition, Air Force Academy, Leadership Philosophy, Professional Networking, Continuous Learning, Relationship Building, Giving Back   The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association and Foundation    

He was a competitive swimmer as a youth and played water polo in high school. He received a Presidential Appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy, where he continued with both swimming and water polo. Believing in the value of non-profit service as an important duty, he has focused on his passion for serving, church, the underprivileged, and supporting education and youth. With two other couples, he and his wife conceived, co-founded and led the effort to create Saint Junipero Serra Catholic which has grown to become the largest Catholic grade school in America. He is a Knight of Malta and served on the National Board of Governors of Legatus, a Catholic organization for business executives who strive to study, live and spread the Catholic faith in their business, professional, and personal lives. His focus these days is on the Fruitful Futures Project, a 501c3 devoted to inspiring fruitfulness with the intention of helping others to help to build the Kingdom.

Retired F-16 pilot Chris Lehto dives into the unknown with psychic John Russell, a 50-year veteran of paranormal investigation. From telepathic UFO encounters to unexplained orbs in the sky, we explore the line between science and the supernatural. Can psychic phenomena hold clues to UAP mysteries? Join us for a mind-bending conversation that challenges reality—skeptics and believers welcome.Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Lehto Files investigations!Chris Lehto is a former F-16 pilot with 18 years of experience in the Air Force. He managed multi-million dollar simulator contracts, was an Electronic Attack SME for the Aggressors (OPFOR), and commanded the US Detachment at TLP for NATO Fighter Pilot Training. Chris fought in Iraq for 5 months in 2006. He spent 3 years in Turkey as an exchange pilot and is fluent in Turkish. Chris is also a certified crash safety investigator, having investigated Air Force accidents for four years. Lehto has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry-Materials Science from the Air Force Academy and a Master's in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle University. He was stationed in various locations worldwide, including South Korea, Italy, Alaska, Turkey, and Spain. Lehto's YouTube channel, "Lehto Files," focuses on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) research, future tech insights, and sharing knowledge. His approach is scientific and aims to illuminate these phenomena and provide informative content. He also shares his expertise on aviation safety and accident analysis. Lehto believes in the power of open dialogue and the importance of a censor-free internet.Lehto covers a range of topics, including: • Analysis of aviation accidents, such as the collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. • Identification of drones, drawing on his Air Force security forces experience. • Insights into Alternate Physics - promoting his Fractal Holographic Universe Theory • Discussions of UAPs and related topics. • Insights into space exploration, including his experience at the launch of SpaceX's Starship SN25. #ChrisLehto Join this channel for exclusive access: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVNKdkLzWuy1oLuCuCv4NCA/joinFollow on social X: https://x.com/LehtoFilesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lehtofilesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090658513954 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lehto_files/reels/Support the channel and get exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/chrislehto Invest in UAP Society NFTs!  https://opensea.io/collection/uapeezSharing my referral link for when you order your Tesla. You'll get 500 € off the purchase of a Tesla product. https://www.tesla.com/referral/christopher39105Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lehto-files-investigating-uaps--5990774/support.

Pilot Probes Pyramid Depths: Hidden Machines?

Dr. Jeremy Cannon is a Professor of Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania where he serves as the Surgeon Champion for the Penn Medicine-US Navy Trauma Training Partnership. He is a graduate of the US Air Force Academy and Harvard Medical School and holds a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from MIT. He served as President of the Excelsior Surgical Society from 2022-2023 and recently edited Edward D. Chruchill's Surgeon to Soldiers 2024 Edition. With a focus on military health policy, he is now serving as a Veteran Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University. In this episode of The Emergency Mind Podcast, we talk about military medical readiness and the 'peacetime effect,' examining the steep learning curves experienced in past conflicts and the importance of maintaining and improving readiness in military medical systems. This conversation explores the necessity of military-civilian partnerships, the evolution of trauma care, and the critical need for effective policy. Deep insights here for both military and civilian listeners about optimizing medical readiness and saving lives on and off the battlefield.

Crosswalk host Brian Michaels sits down with Rich Haynie for a discussion on his early years as an Air Force Academy cadet, including playing quarterback for the Falcons, to his conversion to Christ, and his role in helping Christian organizations raise funds in a Biblical fashion, trusting God to provide for His work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Once per quarter, BUILD Coaching Company hosts The Underground Huddle – an interview with a prominent leader in sports or business with BUILD clients and other select guests present. All attendees live our mission to build an army of Disciplined Leaders and share our vision to be a resource for and a connector of current and aspiring leaders in small business, sports, and other areas of life. For the 13th Underground Huddle, our guest was Dr. Chris Howard. Ben met Dr. Howard in 2009 as a sophomore at Hampden-Sydney College when he became the President at the school and since then he has been the President at Robert Morris University and is now the Executive Vice President at Arizona State University. Dr. Howard played running back at the U.S. Air Force Academy, was on the College Football Playoff Selection Committee, and boasts a long list of leadership accomplishments. Most importantly, Dr. Howard is a husband to Barbara and father to Cohen and Joshua.

President Trump is using his executive power to rip the lid off the deep state's most egregious fraud, waste, and abuse—starting with USAID. But what about Congress? Reps. Keith Self and August Pfluger join The Kevin Roberts Show to reveal how they're working to codify Trump's reforms, gut the bureaucracy, and put America back on the path to military strength and fiscal sanity. From cutting trillions in waste to dismantling Biden's radical policies, this episode breaks down the real fight for America's future.About Rep. Pfluger: Serving his third term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman August Pfluger represents 20 counties in Texas' 11th Congressional District, including Brownwood, Killeen, Llano, Midland, Odessa, and San Angelo. August grew up in San Angelo, where he lives with his wife Camille and three daughters. August graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy before serving in the military for twenty years as a decorated fighter pilot and squadron commander, including two deployments to Syria and Northern Iraq. August also served on the United States National Security Council (NSC) during President Trump's first presidency and still serves as a colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserves. In Congress, August is the first Member to represent Midland and Odessa on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. He also serves as Chairman of the Republican Study Committee – the largest caucus of conservatives on Capitol Hill – and as Chairman of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. Additionally, August co-founded the MACH 1 Caucus and the Texas Ag Task Force. He is a conservative Republican, a proud husband and father, and a devoted follower of Jesus Christ.About Rep. Self: Keith Self was born in a military hospital during his father's service in the United States Army and was raised in Texas.  After graduation from High School in Amarillo, he accepted an appointment to The United States Military Academy at West Point, where he began a 25-year career of service to our country.Keith's Army tours included Airborne Infantry Platoon Leader, Airborne Infantry Company Commander, Special Forces Detachment Commander and Special Forces Company Commander.  His service took him to Europe, the Middle East, and the Pentagon, where he worked on the most sensitive military programs.  He deployed to Grenada, Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Iraqi Freedom. During his career, Keith received the Master Parachutist Badge, Ranger Tab, Special Forces Tab, and Joint Staff Badge.  He retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.Upon retiring from the Army, Keith was elected County Judge in Collin County, TX, in 2006.  He served three consecutive terms before retiring in 2018.Keith and his wife Tracy have been happily married since his graduation from West Point.  They reside in McKinney, TX and are active members in their church and local community.

Get an exclusive, in-depth look at the Cincinnati Bengals' new Linebacker Coach, Mike Hodges, in this captivating "In the Trenches with Dave Lapham" episode brought to you by First Star Logistics. Dave Lapham sits down with Hodges to explore his unique journey from a high school Air Force Academy recruit to a standout walk-on football player at Texas A&M and now a rising star in the NFL coaching world. Hodges' story is not your typical football narrative. After being accepted into the Air Force Academy out of high school, he demonstrated a rare combination of academic prowess and athletic ability. After deciding to transfer to Texas A&M, he earned the prestigious Aggie Heart Award, an honor bestowed upon a player embodying character, leadership, academic excellence, and on-field/off-field commitment. This award sets him apart and speaks volumes about his dedication and integrity. Dave Lapham delves into Hodges' eight years with the New Orleans Saints, including five years as the Linebacker Coach. During these years, Hodges honed his coaching skills and mentored talented players like Demario Davis. He shares his insights on Davis' exceptional work ethic and consistent performance, emphasizing the importance of a team-first mentality and tireless dedication in achieving long-term success in the NFL. Hear Hodges' perspective on the Bengals' current linebacker group, including Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt. He discusses his evaluation process for potential free agent acquisitions and draft prospects, emphasizing the need for players who possess physical talent and demonstrate a strong football IQ, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to learn and retain information effectively. Hodges highlights the importance of collaboration within the Bengals' coaching staff. He commends Defensive Coordinator Al Golden inclusive approach, fostering an environment where coaches feel empowered to share their ideas and contribute to the team's strategic direction. He also touches on how all of the team can get behind Joe Burrow. Hodges shares his excitement about working with Joe Burrow, emphasizing the importance of building a strong defensive support system around the star quarterback. He highlights the need for a simplified yet deceptive defensive scheme that allows players to execute effectively without being overwhelmed by complex play calls. He shares how his experiences can improve the Bengals and get them ready for some tough competition in the AFC North. This episode offers a unique blend of personal anecdotes, coaching philosophy, and strategic insights, providing Bengals fans with a comprehensive understanding of their new linebacker coach and his vision for the team's future. Don't miss this exclusive interview that goes beyond the Xs and Os to reveal the character and intellect driving one of the NFL's most promising young coaches.

In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, we continue the conversation with Mike Wilkinson, the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of South Alabama. Mike shares his journey of adapting to a new campus environment and the importance of being genuine and authentic in both personal and professional life. He emphasized the need for higher education institutions, especially within student affairs, to effectively tell their stories and connect with students through digital media and social platforms. The conversation delves into creating impactful student experiences, highlighting efforts like the return of the homecoming concert and the development of a new Student Involvement Department. The discussion also touches on the significance of mental health awareness, the importance of team leadership, and building strong collaborative relationships across campus. Furthermore, insights about leveraging branding for community building and future goals of personal growth, including aspirations of becoming an NCAA basketball referee, are shared.KEY TAKEAWAYSCommunity and Leadership: Emphasizing the importance of genuine leadership and fostering community within student affairs.Mental Health: Highlighting the critical role of mental health support and breaking the stigma associated with it.Social Media Presence: Encouraging student affairs professionals to utilize social media to tell their stories and engage with students.Event Management: Discussing the significance of student engagement through events like homecoming concerts and pre-game tailgate concerts.Collaboration: Stressing the power of partnerships and collaboration within the university, especially between student affairs and athletics.QUOTES"Tell your story, the good, the bad, the ugly, how you got to where you're at is a key part of it.""We don't tell our story, especially in student affairs… you don't find them. They're a ghost.""We have to have courage. We have to have bravery, um, in these walks that we walk.""Being genuine is key. That's key. I take a lot of pride in being genuine and being authentic.""Hire good people, give them the resources that they need to do their job, and then get the heck out of their way."Connect and learn more about Mike Wilkinson.https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelwilkinson7/If you enjoyed this episode of In the Club Podcast with Club Colors, please leave us a review on your favorite podcasting platform!Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com/

In this episode of Long Blue Leadership, Christian Evans shares his journey from a jovial cadet to a dedicated leader focused on uplifting others. SUMMARY Christian reflects on transformative experiences during his time at the Air Force Academy, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of community engagement. Christian discusses navigating career transitions, the power of giving back, and the significance of leading with love. He emphasizes resilience, personal growth, and the need to engage the next generation of leaders.   SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN | FACEBOOK   TAKEAWAYS Christian emphasizes the importance of humor in leadership. Transformative experiences can lead to personal growth and leadership development. Mentorship plays a crucial role in guiding younger generations. Navigating career transitions requires building a supportive network. Giving back to the community enhances personal fulfillment. Engaging the next generation is vital for sustaining leadership values. Resilience is key to overcoming failures and learning from them. Leading with love fosters a supportive environment. Personal growth is a continuous journey influenced by experiences. Finding avenues to contribute to the community is essential for leadership.   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00  Introduction to Leadership Journeys 02:56  Transformative Experiences in Cadet Life 06:10  The Impact of Mentorship and Community 08:52  Navigating Career Transitions 11:49  The Power of Giving Back 14:50  Engaging the Next Generation 17:55  Lessons in Resilience and Growth 21:00  Leading with Love 23:55  Reflections on Personal Growth 26:59  Conclusion and Future Aspirations   ABOUT CHRISTIAN EVANS BIO Christian Evans is a Business Development Executive at Olsson where he leads sales and growth efforts in Texas and Colorado. Christian previously worked as Managing Partner of Greenwood Capital lower middle market PE firm, Wealth Advisor at Morgan Stanley, Capital Markets Sales Manager at Highland Capital Management. Prior to joining Highland, he worked as an associate on the Banking, Investing, and Lending team at Goldman Sachs. Christian started his professional career in the United States Air Force as a space operations officer at Cape Cod AFS, MA and an acquisitions program manager at the Space and Missile Systems Center at Los Angeles AFB, CA. Christian is an active leader in the Dallas community sitting on the Visiting Nurses Association of Texas Board of Directors on the finance and development committees and on the Friends Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy on the Development committee. Christian is an active member of the Urban Land Institute and The Real Estate Council. Christian is a 2008 Graduate of the United States Air Force Academy where he majored in Management. As a Cadet, he competed on the Fighting Falcon football team, served as President of the Tuskegee Airmen Club, and became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Incorporated. He completed his MBA at the SMU Cox School of Business in 2017. Christian is married to Dr. Candace Evans and they enjoy their time with their son, Cash. - Copy courtesy of the U.S. Air Force Academy Association of Graduates    CONNECT WITH CHRISTIAN LINKEDIN  |  ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES       ALL PAST LBL EPISODES  |  ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS       FULL TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS Guest:    CHRISTIAN EVANS '08  |  Host:  Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99   Naviere Walkewicz  00:00 Welcome to Long Blue Leadership, the podcast where we share insights on leadership through the lives and experiences of Air Force Academy graduates. I'm Naviere Walkewicz, Class of '99. For Christian Evans, USAFA Class of 2008, the journey was arduous, and even now, though he's dedicated himself to a life of lifting others up, he still thinks of himself as a work in progress, becoming the model for grace, giving back and leadership that he is today. Christian, thanks for being here today.   Christian Evans  00:28 Thank you so much for having me. Truly honored and flattered to be here.   Naviere Walkewicz  00:34 What were you like growing up? — I guess maybe is the first question.   Christian Evans  00:38 I've always been a jovial person. I've always had a sense of humor, and I've always kind of been a strategic thinker, if that makes sense. So, while I was somewhat the life of the party to a certain extent, or someone on the team that would galvanize the teammates, it was mostly through humor or engaging outside of anything serious, because everything's so serious, right?   Naviere Walkewicz Right.   Christian Evans  So, growing up and even at the Academy, I always kind of used humor as a way to put myself out there, so to speak, right? To kind of get people's moods to calm down. Yeah, I just always was more focused on what I was doing, and never focused on “I should be leading in this space,” outside of just knowing if you do well in school, get good grades… All right, that's leadership by doing. “I'm in NHS, I'm in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. I'm doing all these service things. And even though I'm not the president or vice president, I'm still active, serving a greater purpose.” So, yeah, growing up, I was a good kid, liked to have fun, maybe a little crass at times.   Naviere Walkewicz  02:05 Your sophomore year, you know, your three-degree, you kind of had this decision point. What was it that helped you make that decision? Was there an incident? Was there a moment? Was it just a path you were on?   Christian Evans  02:20 There was definitely an incident. At the end of our sophomore year, we did not have the season that we wanted as a football team, so the night of the game, after the game, I was still underaged, and I drank alcohol and the Academy found out about it. And so, I had to go through that rehabilitation process, which wasn't fun. I think it was six months where you're restricted to the base. At that point, that's when I said, “OK, this isn't a civilian school. You've kind of got to button it up here if you want to stay and actually get something out of it.” So that next year, I made a point during summer school, and even that summer as a cadre for basic, to just really apply myself and try to see, “All right, if I actually apply myself and lead and maybe not make everything a joke, will you see real outcomes?” And I think that's where my first experience of really being able to affect younger cadets and/or younger grads and their experience with the Academy. Because as a basic cadet cadre, I really went out of my way to try to look out for our basics in a way that typically doesn't happen during basic training. And it is what it is, right? Basic training is not summer camp, so it's got to be tough, it's got to be hard. But I definitely — and I think if you ask my basics — I definitely went into the situation with the idea of making it hard, but fair, but also making it enjoyable and something that's worth remembering. And so experiencing that as a cadet and really seeing, “OK, yeah, you're pretty good at this thing, you can motivate people, and you can make them feel good about themselves, and you could help them when they need it, and not make it hard for them to get where they need to go, kind of thing, and really enable them.” That was a great experience for me, and kind of carried into the next year. I got on group staff; I learned that the more that you lean in, there are actual outcomes that come out of it, and you're able to have a positive impact on other people, which, to me, gives me — that's where I get energy, and I feel good about myself. Outside of how I feel about myself is how I can help other people to accomplish whatever it is they kind of want to do.   Naviere Walkewicz  05:04 Wow, it sounds like you took an incident that happened to you all the way back in basic and you found a way to turn it around, to make sure that another basic didn't have to go through what you did. And you probably didn't even realize it at the time when you're going through that self-discovery as a leader and applying yourself, but can you think of a story of where that came into play? Like when you were a cadre for a basic, was there ever a time where you were able to make a difference for a basic that you weren't able to have made for you?   Christian Evans  05:34 Absolutely. One of the things I did — and this is an easy one — was when there was someone that needed meal replacements for whatever reason, or was still hungry at the end of the day, I would help get food and sustenance to them, whether they played sports or not. Obviously doing it for the football guys so that they could maintain weight for when the season starts. But when other non-football people mentioned that they were still hungry, the food was making them upset, things like that. Yeah, I would get them what they needed, right? And I think for that, they felt like somebody cared. I will say, as a cadre, I think the best thing I could have done was just make it a memorable experience through the experiences, right? Like I said, I'm into humor. I like to have fun, and to me, basic training as a cadre was like being a stand-up comedian with the built-in audience, you know? So, I would do bits with the kids, not kids, but they were kids. I would do bits, you know? I would have fun, but within that, it would always be kind of a bigger picture.   Naviere Walkewicz  06:49 Well, I think that's fantastic sharing a bit of your personality, and I think that's also part of leadership, because when we think about what how people lead, it's usually from what they learn from others. So, being able to see that you can be human, and you can use humor, and you can still affect a mission, and especially — maybe people bring in their best self, because they didn't feel that they had to be so fearful, right? I don't know, maybe you touched them in that way.   Christian Evans  07:17 I hope so. Because there was still a lot of fear, I imagine, left in the basic squadron.   Naviere Walkewicz  07:24 Yes. Well, it led me to something you we talked about because you said you had indifference even your senior years. But there was a theme through that as well. You talked about being able to help others, so maybe talk through what you've learned about yourself as a leader in this space of helping others. Has there been a moment in your career now, whether through in the military, or when you transitioned out, where you saw that coming into play more?   Christian Evans  07:49 It's something that I feel is evergreen, for me, is I'm always kind of thinking about, “How can I have an impact on the community around me?” Most recently, since transitioning from active duty into the private sector, I learned a lot. I didn't know much about the industry I was going into that being finance, I was blessed with an opportunity to do an internship with Goldman Sachs during my transition period, while I was still active duty. This was before they had the program they have now, the skill bridge program. I went into a very complex situation with very little information, and going through that process, I was able to reach out to a lot of people to help fill the gap. No. 1, most of the people that I found myself talking to and that had built networks within Goldman and other financial institutions were Navy and overwhelmingly Army grads. So, at that point, and I like that it says Long Blue Leadership, because the Long Blue Line is what we were all sold on coming here, whether you played sports or not, Just about anybody you asked that have made the transition from active duty into a new industry or career that requires a little bit of advocacy and understanding, and people doing some recruiting and all those things — how much it means to have somebody that you could call and learn things that you just don't know. My transition, learning the industry, learning the different steps that you need to take to get to different parts of the industry — I started just documenting resources, built out my network so the people that had helped me and kind of poured into me and mentored me, tried to stay in touch. That is something that I'm pretty good at, is just meeting people and turning a casual introduction into some type of meaningful relationship. And so, when I got a few years in and did my MBA, and kind of went through my process, I put together a one-pager, two-pager, and shared it with the number of younger grads at the time that I kind of adopted as mentees. They were just young grads, or young cadets, in some cases, that had an ambition and that wanted to do something that they didn't really know much about. Being able to give them that information to fill the void earlier in the process — maybe they've got a few years left in the Air Force. OK, they could start preparing themselves through certain things, getting involved in certain organizations. I thought if I could get this information to them earlier, well they could start preparing more for making that transition. And so, after doing that, and over the years, they made it their own thing, and now they have matriculated to some of the top business schools, law schools in America. And so, for me, that showed me the power of “when you learn, teach; when you get, give,” right? I heard that quote a number of years ago. That kind of was something that, after doing that and seeing the outcome, and especially now when I look back, that started maybe, let's say, eight years ago. Well now guys are starting their own funds, and they're working at multiple investment banks and consulting companies, and to me, that was more rewarding than even the accomplishments I had made in my transition. So, I feel very blessed to have been able to do that. But, you know, I definitely, over the time, have made it a mission of mine to ensure that I'm pulling the younger grads in the direction that they want to go, and doing it a little bit earlier in the cycle so that they could get better prepared.   Naviere Walkewicz  12:25 This is really fascinating. What makes you care in this way?   Christian Evans  12:29 At my first base was my first real interaction with the AOG and actual alumni. I got to meet real grads. One in particular was a gentleman, Al Fullerton. I think he was a 1963 grad, and he was medically discharged before he was able to serve. However, he was a grad, and he stayed connected to the organization. And my buddy, Evan Dadoski, who — he would get us to those AOG meetings, and when I and when I had those experiences and when I had the experience with Al, and he would give his time to me, Evan, Brian Campbell, Adam Hood, like go have lunch with us. Got to meet with Flash Wiley while I was up there, you know, Nate Dial went and got his master's while he was up there. And we would go have coffee and get to talk to him and interact with him. And I said, “Man, there is some richness to this,” but those were just really individual connection points. It wasn't like a critical mass, but it did pique my interest in saying, “Oh, there is a richness in a younger grad getting to know a more seasoned grad, or the intergenerational interactions that a lot of times we don't get for whatever reason.”   Naviere Walkewicz  13:57 So, you started seeing and feeling the effects of the Long Blue Line?   Christian Evans  14:01 Yeah, absolutely. It was really just the thought of trying to maximize the talent that God gave me, and in doing that, you can't be indifferent and be a great leader. You can't be indifferent and be the best that you can be.   Naviere Walkewicz  14:19 Certainly, doesn't hurt to be kind of engaging with the vision for where our association's going and to your point, what does your impact look like within there?   Christian Evans  Sure.   Naviere Walkewicz  So, what has that look like, and how has that shaped you as a leader? Do you feel like those are one in the same, like you bring your leadership to it in the way that you are, or has it changed you this kind of service as a leader?   Christian Evans  14:43 Yeah, if anything, I learned that if you do have a passion for how things should be, if you lean in, you galvanize the troops, so to speak, and/or try to find leadership opportunities within the multiple organizations that interact and do things for a cadet. And for grads, find those because it's been very beneficial to me as I have come onto the board and seeing, OK, something like the next generation.   Naviere Walkewicz  15:12 So, can you talk a little bit more about this Next Gen group?   Christian Evans  15:16 Yeah, absolutely. There are certain periods as graduates, where we have big decisions to make, and as an association, the more that we're engaged and helping you to solve for those decision problems, so to speak, the more you'll feel the value was served to you to engage. So, that kind of spurred a conversation with Nate Dial. And, you know, we always kind of have strategy sessions here and there about all kinds of stuff. But in this situation, it was, “Hey, how can we kind of solve for this young alumni or emerging leader alumni engagement?” Because the numbers speak for themselves — it's extremely low. If all grads are engaging at 10%, if you graduated after '95 it's less than 10%. So, Next Gen kind of was born out of that. And so, we started thinking about, “We've still got a lot of people engaged from our previous classes.” And so, I thought if we created some type of working group to start thinking about what can we do to provide this value proposition to that demographic of graduates that are historically disengaged? And engagement is not money, right? It's just showing up to alumni events or coming back to the Academy at any point or whatever, going to a game when the Academy is playing close to you, things of that nature. So that's where we got to the Next Gen. group.   Naviere Walkewicz  16:54 I mean, I think a theme that's been woven through this with you has been, in your journey as a leader, really leaning in. You know, it seems like when you've had these moments of decisions, of applying yourself, you have these continuous wins that seem to have continued to fuel that desire to make further impact and others. Would you say that's accurate?   Christian Evans  17:20 Absolutely. You know, wins have a way of building on themselves, and losses due too. So, incremental big win, small wins — I'm just trying to win. So yeah, to me… and even in the face of a loss, you're still winning, because it's an opportunity to learn, right? I'm sure it's a common theme, but it's true. We all have experienced failure. Nobody wants to talk about it, but everybody experiences it some way. How do you deal with that failure? We talk about resiliency at the Academy, you know? We talk about integrity a lot. We talk about service, we talk about excellence, but we don't talk about failure necessarily, because we're Academy grads. We don't fail, right? We don't fail. But it's true: Even in failure, you're it's an opportunity to win, and the more wins you kind of put together. They cascade, and they grow into great things. And that's kind of where I see, at least my growth and development has been through just a cascading of small, big, intermediate and honestly, putting myself out, taking myself out of my comfort zone, see where the chips fall.   Naviere Walkewicz  18:44 Well, we'd like to hear what your leadership lessons and takeaways are, because there have been really a lot of moments in here that I think everyone has been able to kind of see themselves in, right? You've had moments where you've had to kind of pick yourself up, even when you weren't sure what that looked like, and you did. What, what might you leave with our folks?   Christian Evans  19:04 You know, we go through a lot of leadership training, so it's like a leadership podcast to teach me what I've been training for, for it feels like our whole adult life could seem redundant sometimes. So, I'm not going to give anybody a nugget that they might not have heard before, but something that I've tried to do that maybe, when I think about leadership, has helped me to approach it in a different way, is to always think about leading with love to a certain extent. I don't mean that to be mushy, I mean that to be sincere. Always go into a situation thinking about the person you're dealing with, as opposed to yourself. Little things like I said, we've got a lot of technical and structured education about what leadership is, but how do you actually execute and effectively live it? So for me, it's a very selfless kind of approach. But I always say, “Lead with love,” and that's what I'll continue to do, right? But I don't have any groundbreaking nuggets. I don't think about leadership all the time. It's just in me, right? I think it's in all — most — of us, they made sure of that. But sincerely, leading with love, because there are other obvious nuances and principles to leadership, but to me, that's the one that gets lost the most in translation, sometimes.   Naviere Walkewicz  20:40 Can you share a moment when you led with love and it was maybe a moment where you wouldn't have expected that's the way that you could actually solve something?   Christian Evans  20:53 I wouldn't say I have a specific instance. It's just who I am. So, I don't really have an instance. I think every time that I get the opportunity to be in a leadership situation that's at work, in my day job, that leadership looks a little different than leadership in an AOG board capacity, or leadership in other board service that I do around the town of Dallas, or really leadership within your own peer groups, right? It's just a part of who I am. So I don't necessarily have a specific situation. It's just most of the situations where I found myself having an opportunity to actively lead other people, I try to make sure that I'm implementing that, and I think most people that have gotten to work with me would attest to it.   Naviere Walkewicz  21:57 Well, I can validate that certainly. Just in our interactions together, I think I've seen you lead with love, and it's because you put the human aspect in. How can I help you? — is really how it translates across, and I think that's very powerful. It's maybe not something that people think about, but it's probably highly effective. But even more so, it's incredibly, probably fulfilling.   Christian Evans  22:19 Yeah, I would say one thing I learned is, I don't need much help. I'm gonna go figure it out. But there's a lot of people that don't have that same personality type, and so I think that's important when they don't, is that you can be somewhat of a force multiplier for them, using Air Force speak.   Naviere Walkewicz  22:39 I think it's wonderful what you're leading and you're passionate about, and it, again, dovetails from, I think, all of your experiences, of always wanting to make something better than what you had had to go through or experienced in life.   Christian Evans  22:50 You had told me to repeat this, but I had said if you would have asked just about anybody that knew me as a cadet and young officer, if Chris Evans — because I didn't become Christian until I came as a civilian, and everybody's Chris — but yeah, Chris Evans is on the AOG board. They'd say, “No way, no way.” So, I think the Academy, we've all had our experience with maybe getting broken down, whether it's basic training, whether it's your first year, academics. I would say, it started for me during basic training. Growing up and coming into the Academy, I thought of myself as a pretty good kid. You know, I focused on school first, athletics second, and I had a lot of success in those two spaces. I was blessed to be recruited to the Academy to play football. However, I did have a little intellectual curiosity about what the place was all about. Coming on my recruiting visit, seeing the training going on, it definitely piqued my interest. But when I got here and went through the Prep School first, I actually somewhat enjoyed that experience. Basic training at the prep school was hard, but it definitely tests your mettle. And after maybe that first few weeks and thinking that I might quit, having a few conversations with people back home, definitely made the decision that I came here for a reason I was going to see it through. That was challenging next year, during basic training, matriculating into our first — or four-degree year, and I had a very catastrophic event happened with my family where my grandfather was tragically murdered by my uncle — I mean, to be transparent. When we were preparing for this, you mentioned, “Oh, you've gone through some traumas,” and I never really thought about it as a trauma, but it definitely was one. And I would say, through the healing process, I connected with a very great chaplain we had here who took a lot of time to help me heal. However, he could only do so much because I had a lot of work to do for myself. I was blessed to be able to travel and play as a freshman and so in that, between going through what I went through in basic training and then the culture of the football team of somewhat really focusing inward, it definitely helped to lead to a general indifference about maximizing my time at the Academy and focusing on things that may not have been as value add to the bigger picture of being here, if that makes sense. So, from a leadership perspective, in my sophomore year, I had to make a serious decision, like, “If I'm going to stay here, well, what am I here for? Am I going to maximize my time, or am I going to keep goofing off and trying to live like I'm at a civilian school kind of thing?” And so, I did make a conscious effort then to kind of lock in, but still, a young athlete that had a lot of distractions around them, there was still a lot of room to grow. And as I went through my cadet time, I would say, definitely found the beginning of my pride in this institution. Nothing like graduating and have the president call your name, right? That was probably one of the cooler experiences. I would say that was the genesis of my indifference towards the bigger picture of what the Academy represents. But in that, I did come to a few moments where I realized that “Hey, you're really wasting your time here if you're going to continue behaving and really thinking about the Academy from a selfish lens.” That just goes to show it's OK to grow up. The Terrazzo-gap doesn't still have to exist. We could all kind of give back to our organization in ways that we're comfortable with, but you just got to find the avenues to do it.   Naviere Walkewicz  27:27 Well, when I think of the Next Gen community, what excites me is I think about the two cadets that I have at the Academy, and it's the Next Gen community that's going to be their mentors when they graduate. So, when you think about that, it really puts it in perspective.   Christian Evans  27:41 They'll also be their commanders too.   Naviere Walkewicz  27:43 That's right. Well, Christian, it's been a pleasure having you on Long Blue Leadership. Thank you so much for being here today.   Christian Evans  27:49 Thank you again for having me and thank you to the whole team that makes this podcast happen. I know there's a lot of work that goes into it. Thank you for having me.   Naviere Walkewicz  28:01 Thank you for joining us for this edition of Long Blue Leadership. The podcast drops every two weeks on Tuesdays and is available on all your favorite podcast apps. Send your comments and guest ideas to us at social media@usafa.org, and listen to past episodes@longblueleadership.org   KEYWORDS Leadership, mentorship, personal growth, Air Force Academy, community impact, resilience, humor in leadership, self-discovery, transition to civilian life, alumni engagement.       The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association and Foundation    

Threats to America are at an all time high. Our national security and law enforcement professionals have warned us. Our military leaders are preparing for anything and everything. Representative August Pfluger is the chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. He is now a 3-term Congressman representing Texas's 11th District. He is also an Air Force Academy graduate and an F-22 fighter pilot with over 300 combat hours. As a member of the bi-partisan military Veterans alliance, the For Country Caucus, one of his biggest efforts is to build coalitions across the aisle. With Homeland Security, terror threats and nation-state brinksmanship front and center, Fran Racioppi sat down with the Congressman to ask him what exactly the biggest threats to America are. They dug into the theory of an imminent terror attack, what the battlefield with China really looks like, and why preventing denial of service attacks and the cyber-security risks against America's critical infrastructure should be at the top of the priority list.They also discussed the future of SOF on an undefined battlefield, how the reduction of fraud, waste and abuse will open up funds for discretionary spending, and why disagreement should be encouraged; but when the decision is made, everyone needs to get in line and execute. Watch, listen or read our conversation from Congressman Pfluger's office. Don't miss our full coverage from Capitol Hill. Special thanks to For Country Caucus for setting up this series. HIGHLIGHTS00:00 Introduction02:55 Veterans in Congress02:35 Terror Threat To America04:45 Cyber Threats10:01 Future role of Special Operations11:47 Lessons from Service in CongressQUOTES“There's a level of trust when you know that somebody else has served.”“It starts with just transparency. We live in a dangerous world. It's not just a terrorism threat.”“These non-nation state actors and even nation state sponsored cyber activities lie in that grey zone.” “That's where we're really vulnerable is some of the smaller communities, some of the smaller banks, some of the smaller entities that provide these services. Denial of services. That's what we're worried about.” “Every dollar of improper payment that is going somewhere else is a dollar we're not spending on security.”“SOF plays a huge role in deterrence. That to me is worth its weight in gold.” Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform, read on our website, and watch the full video version on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are brought to you by University of Health and Performance and are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.The opinions presented on the The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are the opinions of my guests and host Fran Racioppi. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Green Beret Foundation and the Green Beret Foundation assumes no liability for their accuracy, nor does Green Beret Foundation endorse any political candidate or any political party.

One of the newest members of the Florida Gators football team joins Ben on this episode of 84 Reasons. Caleb Rillos talks with Ben about his journey transferring from the Air Force Academy, what he thinks his impact on this years Gators team will be and more!

    What if you could transform military medicine to better serve those who risk their lives to protect us? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Air Force Colonel Dr. Vik Bebarta, a leading figure in emergency medicine and medical toxicology. From his early days at the Air Force Academy to his pivotal role in founding the University of Colorado Center for Combat Research, Dr. Bebarta shares how his experiences on deployments have shaped his perspective on the critical role of research in advancing medical practices. Explore his insights into the evolving landscape of trauma care and brain health, where balancing immediate battlefield needs with long-term innovation is paramount.       Listen in to the fascinating story of how the Center for Combat Research stands at the forefront of military medical innovation, acting as a beacon of collaboration with academia and industry. Discover how the center is tackling pressing challenges like prolonged casualty care and offering mental health resources for military personnel and first responders. By drawing parallels with rural civilian healthcare, we emphasize the importance of readiness and psychological support for those operating in high-stress environments. The conversation dives deep into the complexities of diagnosing and treating traumatic brain injuries, shedding light on innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches being pioneered for our military and veteran communities.       This episode explores leadership principles and the strategic balance required for future medical innovation in military healthcare. Dr. Bebarta shares key advice on taking calculated risks, ensuring accountability, and maintaining agility amidst evolving challenges. Through examples of partnerships among military units, academic institutions, and industry, we highlight the power of a collaborative ecosystem in advancing military medical capabilities. Join us for a compelling discussion that not only celebrates innovation but also offers valuable career advice for those aspiring to make a difference in the field of military medicine.   Chapters: (00:04) Journey Into Military Medicine (12:44) Enhancing Military Medicine Through Research (22:18) Advancing Military Medical Care Through Innovation (31:20) Strategic Balancing for Future Medical Innovation (43:43) Leadership and Military Medicine Advice   Chapter Summaries: (00:04) Journey Into Military Medicine Air Force Colonel Dr. Vik Bebarta shares his journey into military medicine, discussing impactful cases, research, and future challenges.   (12:44) Enhancing Military Medicine Through Research Nature's military medical innovation center collaborates with academia and industry to improve pre-hospital care and support first responders.   (22:18) Advancing Military Medical Care Through Innovation Advancements in trauma care and brain health for military and veterans, including oxygen levels, TBI diagnosis, and digital therapies.   (31:20) Strategic Balancing for Future Medical Innovation Collaboration and agility are crucial in advancing military medicine, with a focus on prolonged care, blood solutions, and AI integration.   (43:43) Leadership and Military Medicine Advice Leadership principles, career advice, and goals in military medicine, emphasizing risk-taking, accountability, agility, and collaboration.   Take Home Messages: The Evolution of Military Medicine: This episode explores the journey of a military medical professional from training to deployment, highlighting the importance of research and innovation in advancing medical practices. It emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in military medicine to meet both immediate battlefield needs and long-term healthcare goals. Collaboration as a Catalyst for Innovation: A significant theme is the critical role of collaboration between military units, academic institutions, and industry partners in driving innovation in military medicine. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing complex challenges like prolonged casualty care and mental health, ensuring readiness and resilience among first responders. Advancements in Trauma and Brain Health: The episode delves into cutting-edge developments in trauma care and brain health, particularly in the context of military and veteran healthcare. Innovative trials and therapies are discussed, highlighting their potential to improve outcomes for those with traumatic brain injuries and other critical conditions. Strategic Resource Allocation: The balance between addressing immediate medical needs on the battlefield and investing in future research is a key focus. The podcast discusses the importance of strategic resource allocation to ensure agility and rigor in military medical advancements, with a particular emphasis on the integration of AI and scalable solutions. Leadership and Resilience in Military Medicine: The episode offers valuable insights into leadership within the military medical field, encouraging future professionals to embrace challenges, take calculated risks, and maintain a focus on the mission and its people. It underscores the importance of mental health support and training for military and civilian first responders to sustain their psychological well-being and effectiveness.   Episode Keywords: Military medicine, Dr. Vik Bebarta, Air Force Colonel, innovation in healthcare, emergency medicine, medical toxicology, University of Colorado Center for Combat Research, trauma care, brain health, PTSD prevention, SAVE-02 trial, Marcus Institute for Brain Health, mental health, military research, leadership in military medicine, combat and civilian healthcare, prolonged casualty care, War Docs Podcast   Hashtags: #MilitaryMedicine #InnovationInHealthcare #DrVicBebarta #CombatResearch #EmergencyMedicine #TraumaticBrainInjury #LeadershipInMedicine #PTSDPrevention #ProlongedCasualtyCare #WarDocsPodcast   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast

Send us a textShadowbanned? Blocked? Ignored? Yeah, we must be doing something right. In this first-ever Ops Brief daily drop, Peaches is bringing you the raw, unfiltered truth about what's ACTUALLY happening inside the Air Force, from insane troop movements to massive leadership failures.

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.