In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn speaks with U.S. Coast Guard pilot Ryan Vandehei about his path into aviation and the realities of life behind the controls.

Ryan recounts his journey into the Coast Guard and shares insights from his very first rescue mission, highlighting how preparation, training, and lessons learned through mistakes helped shape his career. The two dive into advanced training programs like Advanced Helicopter Rescue School (AHRS), and reflect on the importance of communication and teamwork during high-stress missions.

They also discuss rescue operations during Hurricane Dorian and the challenges faced in extreme environments. The conversation takes a powerful and personal turn as Ryan opens up about his own mental health journey—how he recognized the need to ask for help, and how vulnerability became a strength, fostering deeper conversations around wellness in aviation.

This episode is a mix of high-stakes rescues, professional insight, and meaningful reflection on the human side of the mission. Enjoy!

Index: FEB - Flight Examining Board

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In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn interviews Matt Nightingale, a volunteer search and rescue dog handler from the UK.
Matt shares his inspiring journey from being a physics teacher to dedicating his time to volunteer search and rescue work. At the heart of his story is Morag—a once-troubled stray border collie who transformed into a fully qualified search dog. He recounts how their partnership began, the training process, and their very first rescue together.
Matt opens up about the emotional and physical demands of search and rescue operations, the deep bond between handler and dog, and the critical role of family support in volunteer service. He also discusses the challenges of night searches, long-distance deployments, and the extensive qualifications required for K9 rescues.
Matt highlights the importance of visibility for search dogs, teamwork in high-stress environments, and the drive to give back to the community. He closes with heartfelt advice for aspiring SAR volunteers and the importance of setting realistic expectations in this demanding but rewarding field. Enjoy!

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In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn sits down with United States Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer #305, Jeff Danner.

From his early days growing up in Ocean City, Maryland, to navigating the challenges of Coast Guard boot camp and rescue swimmer school, Jeff shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career. He recounts his intense first rescue mission involving a capsized tugboat and four people in the water, along with several other unforgettable missions throughout his time in service.

In addition to the rescue stories, Jeff brings us a fascinating history lesson. He discusses his involvement in the development of the Trisar rescue swimmer harness—an innovation that improved both safety and functionality. He also dives into the creation of the Rescue Swimmer seat used in the HH-65 Dolphin helicopter.

Jeff reflects on the creation of the Rescue Swimmer Registry, a meaningful project aimed at preserving the legacy and honoring the achievements of those who have completed the demanding training.

Throughout our conversation, we talk about rescues, innovations, history, and the passion behind a career dedicated to saving lives. Enjoy!

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In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn is joined by an outstanding crew from the Phoenix Police Department and Phoenix Fire Department for a behind-the-scenes look at their aviation and rescue operations.

Each member shares their unique journey into public service, giving listeners insight into the passion and dedication that drives their careers. The team dives into the technical aspects of their work, from becoming a crew chief in special operations to the collaboration between regional response teams. They highlight their training, first rescues, and the seamless coordination between the police and fire departments in high-risk scenarios.

They share gripping stories from the field, including a challenging nighttime swiftwater rescue, and tackle the realities of working in extreme heat, holiday rescues, and dynamic emergencies. Throughout, the team emphasizes the importance of trust, communication, and mutual respect when lives are on the line.

This episode is in partnership with the Vertical Valor Blades of Valor Road Tour — a special series spotlighting some of the most exceptional law enforcement aviation units across North America. Don’t miss The Hangar Z Podcast’s exclusive three-part series (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3) featuring in-depth conversations with members of the Phoenix PD Air Support Unit, plus an online feature article diving into the evolution of the unit. A video feature will also be dropping soon on Vertical’s YouTube channel.

And the mission doesn’t end here. In the upcoming Vertical Valor APSCON 2025 special issue, the team will go even deeper — shining a spotlight on the unsung heroes behind the scenes: the maintenance professionals and technical crew who keep this high-performance fleet flying, day in and day out. Stay tuned.

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In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn welcomes Dan Molthen, a decorated Coast Guard aviator, for an unforgettable conversation filled with heroism, humility, and hard-earned wisdom.

Molthen shares his incredible journey from aspiring pilot to Coast Guard legend, recounting several dramatic rescue missions. These missions earned him five Achievement Medals, seven Commendation medals, two Air Medals and two Distinguished Flying Crosses.

Throughout the episode, Molthen reflects on the emotional weight of rescue missions, the evolution of mental health awareness in aviation, and the powerful camaraderie that forms between aircrews. He offers personal stories of triumph and trauma, the unpredictability of USCG helicopter rescues, and even some lighter moments—including his unique experience on the set of The Guardian, a feature film starring Kevin Costner and Ashton Kutcher.

From stormy seas to career reflections, this is a testament to the resilience, innovation, and dedication required in Coast Guard aviation. Molthen’s message is clear: Train hard, take care of your crew, and never underestimate the impact of a rescue—on the survivor and the rescuer alike. Enjoy!

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In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn sits down with retired U.S. Navy Captain and pilot Wayne Tunick for a powerful and insightful conversation.

Tunick shares his journey into military aviation, recounting the path that led him to become a Navy pilot. He opens up about his firsthand experience during the 9/11 attacks at the Pentagon and the profound impact it had on him. One of the most gripping stories he shares is of a helicopter crash he survived—an incident that reshaped his perspective on aviation safety, training, and leadership.

Tunick emphasizes the importance of storytelling and recognizing the often unsung contributions of military aircrew members. He dives into the operational side of Navy aviation, sharing stories from search and rescue missions and high-pressure counter-narcotics operations. He reflects on his first rescue, highlighting the critical role of situational awareness, crew communication, and coordination in successful missions.

As a veteran pilot, Tunick discusses the challenges of training, the camaraderie among crew members, and the need for continued appreciation and acknowledgment of those who serve in these demanding roles. The conversation also includes moments of levity, personal wisdom, and valuable life lessons learned over the course of his distinguished career.

This is a testament to the resilience, skill, and dedication of our military aviators. Enjoy!

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In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn has an engaging and heartfelt conversation with Mark Tappan, a respected K9 handler and law enforcement officer, who shares his incredible journey—from dreaming of being a game show host to becoming a nationally recognized K9 officer.

Mark takes us through the story of how he was paired with his K9 partner, Mattis, and the unbreakable bond they developed while working side by side. He shares gripping stories from the field, including high-risk calls and heroic incidents that showcased Mattis’s bravery and exceptional training. These stories highlight not only the critical role police dogs play in law enforcement but also the deep trust and communication needed between handler and dog.

Throughout the conversation, Mark reflects on the emotional toll and resilience required in their line of work, the powerful lessons he's learned from Mattis, and how their work has impacted both their lives and the communities they’ve served. He emphasizes how K9 teams can serve as a bridge between law enforcement and the public, breaking down barriers and fostering positive connections.

We also dive into Mark’s experience competing on A&E’s America’s Top Dog, what it was like stepping into the spotlight, and how that opportunity helped him showcase the incredible capability of working dogs to a broader audience.

Mark closes the episode by sharing his vision for the future, his passion for educating others, and the lasting legacy of his work with Mattis. This episode is a tribute to the strength of the K9-human partnership and the extraordinary impact it can have. Enjoy!

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In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn welcomes Drew Sinclair, retired U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer No. 700, to share his incredible journey through the ranks of military service and beyond.

From growing up as part of an Army family to earning his place among the elite as a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, Sinclair recounts the milestones and life-changing moments that shaped his career. He walks us through his very first rescue—a dramatic case where a car plunged off a bridge, and only a Coast Guard helicopter crew could reach the victims. That mission left a deep impression on him, and he reflects on the emotional weight that often accompanies such rescues, as well as the deep camaraderie shared among rescue swimmers.

As his career progressed, Sinclair found himself in another unforgettable operation while stationed in Mobile, Alabama—just before attending Officer Candidate School. He details a rescue that involved saving nine people and two dogs, showcasing the intensity and complexity of real-world missions.

Transitioning to officer, Sinclair’s perspective broadened further. He shares a gripping story from his time overseeing a pollution response mission when a vessel suddenly capsized. This incident underscores the unpredictability of the marine environment and reinforces the critical importance of readiness, leadership, and teamwork.

Beyond his time in uniform, Sinclair opens up about his personal transformation post-retirement. He dives into the lifestyle changes he’s made, including his commitment to fitness, clean nutrition, and sobriety. With candor and passion, he talks about motivation, accountability, and a good positive mindset in his life—and how he hopes to inspire others to take control of their own health and well-being.

This powerful conversation covers everything from daring rescues to personal growth, and it wraps with Drew’s heartfelt advice for future generations: Stay prepared, stay motivated, and never stop striving to be your best self—both personally and professionally. Enjoy!

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