This week we sit down with Mr. Dave Shepard from the Office of Boat Forces, a key figure behind some of the Coast Guard’s most iconic platforms. From the early days of the 47-foot Motor Lifeboat to the development of the Response Boat–Medium, Mr. Shepard shares insights on how these boats came to define modern missions. We also get a look at what’s ahead for his portfolio as the Office of Boat Forces continues shaping the future of operations. A must-listen for anyone who’s ever trusted their life to hulls, seaworthiness, and smart design.

This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard.

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We're joined by LT Chris Fuentes from the Office of Boat Forces 1-Side to discuss Electronic Asset Logbook (EAL). LT provides insight on the system’s role in capturing operational data, new changes to the way we capture information, and highlights some upcoming training opportunities. EAL, part of the Coast Guard’s broader data environment that includes OORS, AOPS, ALMIS, and MISLE, helps record mission activity vital for planning, resourcing, and staffing. When data isn’t captured digitally, the burden falls on manual surveys and anecdotal reports. This episode highlights EAL’s role in bridging that gap and ensuring operational status is accurately documented.

This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard.

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We dive into the critical role of medical readiness in Coast Guard small boat operations. From heat casualties to trauma care in rough seas, we explore how EMT skills keep missions on track and save lives. We discuss medical gear, improvisation, and what crews can do to enhance their medical readiness capability. Our guest, HS1 Vinny Carracio of the White House Medical Staff, joins us to share insights from his recent role in the Coast Guard medical world. This one’s all about readiness when every second counts.

This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard.

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In this episode, we sit down with CDR Leo Danaher from CG-7311 to gain sharp, firsthand insight into the evolving landscape of Coast Guard operations. With a wealth of experience from recent tours, CDR Danaher reflects on key lessons learned, the operational tempo facing Boat Forces today, and how strategic decisions at the program level ripple down to the deckplate.

From policy shifts and resourcing realities to readiness challenges and leadership takeaways, this conversation is packed with actionable insight for coxswains, officers-in-charge, and aspiring leaders alike.

This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard.

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Outgoing ME Rating Force Master Chief Ryan Patterson sits down with us to reflect on his tour as the enlisted leader for Maritime Enforcement specialists. With approximately 7,000 certified boarding officers and boarding team members across active and reserve components, he shares lessons learned, discusses workforce evolution, and explains what it means to advocate for ME personnel at Headquarters.

Then we enter an alternate universe where the Coast Guard never left the Department of the Navy after WWII. In this speculative short story, cutters fly naval pennants, missions blur, and the service’s identity takes a sharp turn. What’s gained? What’s lost?

Half leadership insight, half speculative fiction, this episode explores where we are and where we might have gone.

This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard.

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This week, we dive into Hurricane Season 2025 with insights from designated Coast Guard flood response members preparing to meet the potential mission head-on. We recap a recent multi-unit training exercise featuring expert partners from SPEC Rescue International and spotlight how these collaborations sharpen operational readiness.

Special guests Mr. Rick Mach, Mrs. Brook Serbu, and Mrs. Angie Vallier provide a mission overview for the upcoming season, outlining expectations, challenges, and key takeaways for FY25. Whether you're in the field or behind the scenes, this episode delivers the situational awareness and motivation needed as the Coast Guard stands ready for storm response.

For visual training reference: https://youtu.be/i-Z180iaaLA?si=6UsGWi7EMbr1QYuX

This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard.

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In this episode, we explore the future of marine propulsion with Dr. Michael Kass from Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Dr. Kass shares his expertise on alternative fuels, electrification, and the practical challenges of integrating new technologies into Coast Guard operations. We discuss fuel efficiency, the viability of electric and hybrid systems, and the potential benefits of quieter, more sustainable vessels.

We then visit Aids to Navigation Team (ANT) Eufaula, located on the scenic Lake Eufaula in southeastern Alabama. Officer in Charge, BMC Addam Lupo and his crew provide insights into their daily operations, maintaining crucial navigation aids on the Chattahoochee River. Their work ensures safe passage for both commercial and recreational vessels in this vital waterway.

This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard.

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In this episode, we sit down with VADM William "Dean" Lee, a distinguished Coast Guard leader whose 36-year career culminated as Commander of Atlantic Area. Known not just for his command over vast operations but for his deep commitment to servant leadership, Admiral Lee shares timeless insights on trust, humility, and the evolving nature of leadership. From his earlier days in Boat Forces to his reflections on decision-making at the highest levels, he offers hard-earned lessons for leaders at every rank. Whether you’re new to command or sharpening your leadership style, this candid conversation offers wisdom that truly resonates.

This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard.

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