ALERT: Onboard Systems Industry Update - Fixing the Past, Building the Future
In this ALERT episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn sits down with Cory VanBuskirk, Artak Arakelian, and Nick Demogines, leaders from Onboard Systems Hoist and Winch to deliver an important industry update for all Onboard Systems users.They address the challenges inherited from Collins/Goodrich and outline the solutions and improvements currently being implemented to fix them. The discussion dives deep into leadership dynamics, operational challenges, and the critical importance of maintaining customer trust through times of major change.The guests pull back the curtain on the acquisition process, sharing honest insights about inventory struggles, communication hurdles, and the key steps being taken to restore confidence and improve service delivery. They also detail the company’s ongoing investments in facilities, people, and parts—all aimed at reducing lead times and strengthening global support for the operators and rescuers who depend on their equipment.The conversation expands into the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) side of the business, touching on rapid facility setup, effective hiring and training practices, and the integration of AI for quality assurance.Looking forward, the Onboard Systems team shares their vision for the future, including the development of the new Pegasus hoist, and reaffirms their commitment to innovation, safety, and operational excellence across the industry.This episode offers a rare inside look at what it takes to lead a global aviation support company through transformation—while never losing sight of the mission: keeping rescuers ready and aircraft operational when it matters most. Enjoy!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Onboard Systems Hoist and Winch.Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
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Episode 247: Brendan Sloan - British Cave Rescue Council Medical Officer
In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn speaks with Brendan Sloan, a British cave rescue medical officer, about his remarkable experiences in one of the most unique and challenging rescue environments.Sloan provides an inside look at the volunteer structure of cave rescue teams in the UK, the medical responsibilities that come with the role, and the extensive training required for volunteers. He recounts his first cave rescue experience, as well as the difficulties rescuers face underground—ranging from medical decision-making in confined spaces to unexpected situations like animal rescues.Sloan explains some of the most notable rescues he has been part of, including the Titan Shaft rescue and the massive OFD cave rescue, which involved more than 250 people. He highlights the importance of teamwork, preparation, and safety, while also addressing the psychological challenges of rescue work and the need to protect mental health for responders.Sloan closes with advice for both cavers and rescuers, emphasizing the value of training, resilience, and self-care when working in high-stakes environments.This episode is a fascinating dive—literally and figuratively—into the world of cave rescue, filled with insights, lessons, and stories that underscore the dedication of those who risk everything beneath the surface to save others. Enjoy!www.derbyshirecro.org.uk - DCROwww.smwcrt.org - SMWCRTwww.caverescue.org.uk - BCRCDonate to Derbyshire Cave Rescue OrganisationThis episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Airbus, Axnes, Onboard Systems Hoist and Winch, ReadyBAR, and The Real ResQ Store.Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
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So Others May Live: 40 Years of the Rescue Swimmer Program
In February 1983, tragedy struck in the North Atlantic when the bulk carrier SS Marine Electric rolled over, claiming thirty-one lives. Helicopters arrived but could only watch as exhausted sailors slipped away, unable to climb into rescue baskets. Out of that loss came a promise: the Coast Guard would never again stand by when survivors couldn’t save themselves. That promise gave birth to the Helicopter Rescue Swimmer program.Since 1985, only about 1,125 men and women have earned the title U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer — a one-in-ten-million chance against the average U.S. population. They are the rarest of the rare. For four decades, Rescue Swimmers have faced the impossible: hurricanes, shipwrecks, plane crashes, floods, and mountains — wherever disaster struck, they answered.But the story is about more than rescues. It’s about a brotherhood forged in struggle. From the early days, when the program fought for survival, to A-School, qualification, and duty, every generation has carried the battles forward. Together, they sharpened training, advanced techniques, and built one of the most elite rescue pipelines in the world — a program recognized across the globe.This 40th Anniversary tribute blends archival footage, survivor testimony, and the voices of the swimmers themselves. It honors the thousands of lives saved, the families made whole, and the Rescue Swimmers we’ve lost along the way.This is more than a story of heroics. It is the legacy of one of the greatest jobs in the world — a calling that lasts a lifetime. Always ready. So Others May Live.Check out the video on our YouTube Channel.Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
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Episode 246: Nate Christensen - Captain of the Tremonton Fire Department and 1st Captain of the Box Elder County Search and Rescue Team
In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn sits down with Nate Christensen, Captain of the Tremonton Fire Department and 1st Captain of the Box Elder County Search and Rescue Team. Known for his extraordinary achievements despite working with two artificial legs, Christensen’s story is one of resilience, ingenuity, and unwavering leadership in the face of adversity. His detailed recounting of a silo rescue, where teamwork and problem-solving and the dangers of confined spaces and collapsing materials. Technical analogies come to life as he breaks down the evolving tactics and safety protocols that shaped this operation—a textbook display of strategy meeting raw determination.Christensen shares an unforgettable bus rescue, a scenario in a winter storm. His narrative unfolds with a strategic lens; he shares the real-time decisions, interagency collaborations, and moments when split-second leadership made all the difference. Through these international-caliber case studies, you’ll get a window into modern SAR benchmarks and cross-disciplinary innovation.Beyond the headline rescues, Christensen reflects on the underlying principles that shape his career—from mentoring rookies during high-intensity training evolutions to championing a culture that values emotional support and mental health for first responders. His approach to community building and inclusivity in emergency services is both pragmatic and visionary, rooted in personal experience and a drive to elevate the entire field.Throughout the episode, Jason and Christensen discuss the deeper meaning behind rescue work, the importance of continuous learning, and the global best practices driving technical and human excellence in public safety. Whether you’re an operations leader or a podcast enthusiast, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and the authentic spirit that defines SAR professionals worldwide. Enjoy!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Airbus, PAG, Switlik, ReadyBAR, and The Real ResQ Store.Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
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Episode 245: Darell “Top Fin” Gelakoska, United States Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer #281
In this engaging episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn is joined by Darell “Top Fin” Gelakoska, United States Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer #281, whose remarkable career is now captured in the memoir TOP FIN: Tales of Courage and Chaos from a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer written by fellow Rescue Swimmer #122, George Cavallo.Together, we explore Gelakoska’s journey through the Coast Guard — from the origins of his nickname “Top Fin” to the rescues that defined his career. The discussion sheds light on significant missions, the evolution of rescue techniques, and the development of critical survival equipment like the Emergency Recovery Device (ERD) and Helicopter Emergency Egress Device (HEEDS 3).Beyond the technical side, the conversation highlights the power of storytelling in preserving the legacy of rescue swimmers and honoring the history of their missions. Gelakoska shares meaningful insights into the mental health challenges of the job, the importance of teamwork and camaraderie, and the need to recognize the sacrifices and heroic acts of those who serve.Packed with history, innovation, humor, and personal reflection, this episode offers a compelling look at both the professional and human side of rescue swimming — a must-listen for anyone inspired by courage, resilience, and service. Enjoy!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Airbus, Switlik, Onboard Systems Hoist and Winch, PAG, ReadyBAR, and The Real ResQ Store.Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
The Real ResQ is the ultimate podcast for inspiring stories of everyday heroes who risk their lives ”so others may live.” Join experienced Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer #500, Jason Quinn, and guests from around the world as they share firsthand accounts of high-pressure situations and the bravery required to navigate them. From the simple standard medevac to the dark and stormy night rescues, they are entertaining and fun to listen to. Each episode is packed with riveting stories, insightful interviews, and expert analysis, giving you an immersive experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Here, we go behind the scenes of these amazing rescues. We get an inside look and listen to all the good and the bad of these everyday heroes. Whether you’re a first responder or simply fascinated by the world of rescue work, ”The Real ResQ” is a must-listen. Subscribe now and join us on this unforgettable journey of courage, heroism, and hope.
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