Episode 234: Ryan Vandehei, U.S. Coast Guard - Pilot
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 BoardTo find more information on the article [link coming soon] column [link coming soon].This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Airbus, Metro Aviation, Spectrolab, 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 233: Matt Nightingale and his SAR K9 Morag with The Penrith Mountain Rescue Team Member in the UK
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!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Airbus, Bluedrop, 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.
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Episode 232: Jeff Danner U. S. Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer 305
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!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Airbus, Bluedrop, 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.
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Episode 231: Phoenix Arizona Police and Fire Air Rescue Unit
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.This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Airbus, Metro Aviation, 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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Episode 230: Dan Molthen - U.S. Coast Guard Pilot (Retired)
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!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Axnes, Bluedrop, Onboard Systems Hoist and Winch, 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.
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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