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The Real ResQ Podcast

TheRealResQ
The Real ResQ Podcast
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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.
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  • Episode 244: Javier Lozano, Pilot from Spain and recipient of Vertical Valor - Blades of Valor Award
    In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn sits down with Javier Lozano, from Avincis, decorated Spanish Air Force pilot and commander of Valencia’s maritime rescue helicopter unit.Lozano and his crew earned the Vertical Valor Blades of Valor recognition for their involvement with the Valencia floods. A night rescue carried out in poor weather conditions and an urban environment with unmarked obstacles like cranes, antennas, and high-voltage cables.The helicopter managed to rescue up to a dozen people and a dog.Lozano takes us through his remarkable journey — from his early dreams as a fighter pilot to leading complex SAR missions across Spain. Drawing from over three decades in aviation, he shares dramatic stories of storm-stricken rescues, creative saves involving pets, and the profound challenges faced during catastrophic urban flood operations.The conversation explores the technical and emotional demands of emergency aviation: how improvisation, rigorous preparation, and adaptability become essential when lives hang in the balance. Lozano reflects on the camaraderie within rescue teams, the importance of quick-thinking in unpredictable scenarios, and the powerful human bonds formed in moments of crisis.He also offers invaluable lessons for aspiring pilots and rescue professionals, emphasizing the need for continuous training, collaborative teamwork, and unwavering resilience in the face of adversity.This is much more than a recounting of missions — it’s an exploration of what it means to serve, adapt, and lead under extreme pressure, shining a spotlight on the heart, ingenuity, and tenacity at the core of search and rescue. Read more about the other Blades of Valor recipients in the Fall Mega issue of Vertical Valor, coming out in November 2025. Enjoy!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Axnes, Metro Aviation, 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 243: Kurt Revels U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer #243
    In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn records in person with Kurt Revels, United States Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer #243.Revels takes us through his journey from the grueling days of Rescue Swimmer School to the intensity of real-world missions across multiple duty stations, including Chicago-Illinois, Mobile-Alabama, Kodiak-Alaska and Traverse City-Michigan. He shares stories of his first rescue, daring cliff operations, and missions in rough seas, all while reflecting on the lessons learned and the resilience demanded of every swimmer.Revels highlights the camaraderie and mentorship that define the Coast Guard community, from training through deployments. He also touched on the more unique aspects of service—everything from "Unidentified Floating Objects” to trampolines adrift.As Revels reflects on his final deployments and the shift into civilian life, he emphasizes the importance of carrying forward the legacy of service through mentorship, while also pursuing personal growth, fitness, and adventure. His stories shed light not only on the technical skill and bravery of rescue swimmers, but also on the emotional toll and profound impact of their missions—both on those saved and those doing the saving. Enjoy!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Axnes, Airbus, Centum, Metro Aviation, 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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About The Real ResQ Podcast

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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