Episode 249: Luke Bowman, Chief Pilot of the Utah Department of Public Safety (UT DPS)
In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn sits down with Luke Bowman, Chief Pilot for the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS), to explore the thrilling and demanding world of helicopter search and rescue operations throughout Utah.From adrenaline-charged missions in Utah’s rugged backcountry to heartfelt stories of survival and teamwork, Bowman shares his journey from small-town beginnings to becoming a key leader in life-saving aviation. He pulls back the curtain on the complexities of helicopter rescues—from navigating the high Uintas to threading through the narrow canyons of Zion National Park—where every mission is a balance of skill, preparation, and trust.Bowman discusses the importance of continuous training, the emotional impact of bringing closure to families, and the profound sense of purpose that comes with every call. His stories reveal the courage, precision, and humanity behind every hoist and every flight.Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or part of the SAR community, this episode offers an inspiring glimpse into the dedication and resilience that define search and rescue. Enjoy!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Airbus, 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 248 Will Coble - Instructional Designer for The Leadership Center and "one time a lifeguard"
In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn talks with Will Coble reflects on his time as a lifeguard, sharing memorable rescues, lessons learned, and the profound impact of his time on the beach.Coble dives into both the serious and rewarding sides of lifeguarding, discussing the importance of training, vigilance, and safety awareness in saving lives. Through his stories, he highlights the quick thinking and composure required in high-pressure situations, as well as the camaraderie and growth that come from working in such a demanding environment.He also offers practical advice for aspiring lifeguards, emphasizing the value of preparedness, teamwork, and learning from every experience.This episode shines a light on the discipline, responsibility, and personal development that come with serving on the front lines of beach safety — a true look at what it means to watch over others so they can enjoy the ocean safely. Enjoy!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Airbus, Breeze-Eastern, 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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ALERT: Onboard Systems Hoist and Winch 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.
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.
USA