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Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Valor Plus.   Today’s episode is a powerful and deeply human conversation centered on service, trust, and taking care of one another in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. Our guest is Dave Wuertz, manager of peer support for PHI Air Medical.   Dave’s story is shaped by a lifetime of service in the medical field—starting with an emergecny medical technician (EMT) class in college, and influenced even earlier by his father’s work on an ambulance. From those early experiences, Dave went on to become a paramedic, a trainer, and eventually, an air medical flight nurse. Along the way, he also became a founding member of the peer support program at PHI Air Medical, helping build a culture that recognizes mental wellness as mission-critical.   In this episode, we dive into why peer support matters so much in public service—especially in air medical—why proactive peer support is far more effective than reactive approaches, and why trust is the cornerstone of any successful program.   Dave shares impactful incidents from his time as an air medical flight crew member and from his work supporting others, offering real-world perspective on what these crews face every day. We also discuss the mindset of “four to go, one to say no,” and how speaking up can be the difference between a safe mission and a tragic outcome.   You’ll also hear an overview of PHI Air Medical’s nationwide footprint and the scale of responsibility carried by its teams across the country. And as a special connection for longtime listeners, we talk about Dave’s long-standing professional relationship with one of our favorite guests, Dr. Tania Glenn, and how that collaboration reinforces the importance of mental wellness training done right.   This is an honest, meaningful conversation about caring for the caregivers—and one you won’t want to miss.   Thank you to all our sponsors and to our loyal listeners. Please take a minute to like, subscribe, and share The Hangar Z Podcast. Thank you to our sponsors CENTUM, Metro Aviation and Summit Aviation.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Valor Plus.   Today’s episode is a powerful and deeply human conversation centered on service, trust, and taking care of one another in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. Our guest is Dave Wuertz, manager of peer support for PHI Air Medical.   Dave’s story is shaped by a lifetime of service in the medical field—starting with an emergecny medical technician (EMT) class in college, and influenced even earlier by his father’s work on an ambulance. From those early experiences, Dave went on to become a paramedic, a trainer, and eventually, an air medical flight nurse. Along the way, he also became a founding member of the peer support program at PHI Air Medical, helping build a culture that recognizes mental wellness as mission-critical.   In this episode, we dive into why peer support matters so much in public service—especially in air medical—why proactive peer support is far more effective than reactive approaches, and why trust is the cornerstone of any successful program.   Dave shares impactful incidents from his time as an air medical flight crew member and from his work supporting others, offering real-world perspective on what these crews face every day. We also discuss the mindset of “four to go, one to say no,” and how speaking up can be the difference between a safe mission and a tragic outcome.   You’ll also hear an overview of PHI Air Medical’s nationwide footprint and the scale of responsibility carried by its teams across the country. And as a special connection for longtime listeners, we talk about Dave’s long-standing professional relationship with one of our favorite guests, Dr. Tania Glenn, and how that collaboration reinforces the importance of mental wellness training done right.   This is an honest, meaningful conversation about caring for the caregivers—and one you won’t want to miss.   Thank you to all our sponsors and to our loyal listeners. Please take a minute to like, subscribe, and share The Hangar Z Podcast. Thank you to our sponsors Rotorcraft Support, Inc., Technisonic Industries and Trakka Systems.

Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus. Today’s episode features a true pioneer in airborne law enforcement—retired California Highway Patrol (CHP) pilot John Nielson. With more than 11,000 hours as pilot in command and another 3,400 hours as a second-in-command, John’s career is a masterclass in dedication, innovation, and mission-driven flying. We start at the beginning of his journey on the ground, patrolling out of the Malibu Station along one of the most dangerous stretches of road in California—the Pacific Coast Highway. From there, John takes us through his transition into the air support unit, first as a tactical flight officer and eventually as a fixed-wing pilot. But what truly sets this conversation apart is John’s relentless 15-year effort to bring FLIR technology into CHP’s fixed-wing program. That vision ultimately became reality with the integration of the MX-15 system into a Cessna 206—and the results in the very first year were nothing short of remarkable. John also shares the story of his final flight before retirement—a mission that perfectly captures the impact of that technology, ending with a successful FLIR-assisted find. Now, as the CEO and founder of AirMax Patrol, John continues to shape the future of airborne law enforcement by delivering cost-effective, proven solutions for air support units across the country. We also dive into the capabilities of the Diamond DA62 and why it may be one of the best-kept secrets for law enforcement aviation. This is a conversation about persistence, innovation, and leaving a legacy that continues to save lives. Settle in—this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Thank you to our sponsors Robinson Helicopter, Rotorcraft Support and Technisonic Industries.

Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus. Today’s episode features a true pioneer in airborne law enforcement—retired California Highway Patrol (CHP) pilot John Nielsen. With more than 11,000 hours as pilot in command and another 3,400 hours as a second-in-command, John’s career is a masterclass in dedication, innovation, and mission-driven flying. We start at the beginning of his journey on the ground, patrolling out of the Malibu Station along one of the most dangerous stretches of road in California—the Pacific Coast Highway. From there, John takes us through his transition into the air support unit, first as a tactical flight officer and eventually as a fixed-wing pilot. But what truly sets this conversation apart is John’s relentless 15-year effort to bring FLIR technology into CHP’s fixed-wing program. That vision ultimately became reality with the integration of the MX-15 system into a Cessna 206—and the results in the very first year were nothing short of remarkable. John also shares the story of his final flight before retirement—a mission that perfectly captures the impact of that technology, ending with a successful FLIR-assisted find. Now, as the CEO and founder of AirMax Patrol, John continues to shape the future of airborne law enforcement by delivering cost-effective, proven solutions for air support units across the country. We also dive into the capabilities of the Diamond DA62 and why it may be one of the best-kept secrets for law enforcement aviation. This is a conversation about persistence, innovation, and leaving a legacy that continues to save lives. Settle in—this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Thank you to our sponsors Metro Aviation, Robinson Helicopter and Trakka Systems.

Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus. Today’s episode comes to you from the floor of Verticon in Atlanta, recorded inside the Vertical Plus booth, where the energy of the industry and the people who drive it were on full display. Our guests are pilots Brian Dunn and Brian Atkinson of Coldstream Helicopters in Kelowna, British Columbia—this year’s recipients of the VAI Salute to Excellence Pilots of the Year award.  Between them, they represent both experience and the next generation of aviation professionalism—Brian Dunn with an incredible 50 years in the cockpit, and Brian Atkinson just four years into what is already proving to be an exceptional career. In this episode, we dive into their individual paths into aviation, the lessons learned along the way, and the shared mindset that brought them together in a moment that would define both of their careers. You’ll hear the gripping story of an in-flight emergency while fighting a fire in an Airbus Super Puma—low, slow, and heavy with a full bucket of water, moments away from making a drop, when they suddenly lost all electrical power and experienced dropping rotor RPM. What follows is a powerful account of teamwork, communication, and composure under extreme pressure. This is a story about preparation meeting reality, and how recent simulator training directly influenced their decision-making in those critical seconds. Ultimately, it’s about professionalism, trust, and doing the job when everything is on the line. This is an incredible conversation you won’t want to miss. Thank you to our sponsors CNC Technologies, SHOTOVER Systems and Spectrolab.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus. Thank you to 2026 Blades of Valor Tour sponsor Switlik Survival Products and the support of Massif flight suits. Without your sponsorship and support, this tour would not be possible. Switlik Survival Products supports aviation, marine, military, and search-and-rescue with a wide variety of high-quality survival products. To learn more, go to Switlik.com The Blades of Valor Tour spotlights public safety aviation units recognized for outstanding service and celebrates those who go above and beyond. We aim to promote the good work these agencies do and highlight the standard of excellence they set. These teams serve as a benchmark for the public aviation community. Our mission is to share their stories of unwavering commitment, courage, innovative leadership, teamwork, and technological innovation from agencies setting the standard in public safety aviation. Today’s episode comes to you from inside the hangar at United States Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater — the final stop of the 2026 Blades of Valor Tour. Joining us are MH-60T pilot Lieutenant Commander Nathan Jones and helicopter rescue swimmer Zachary Sowers, two Coast Guard professionals whose journeys to this moment are as inspiring as the missions they fly. Nate comes from a proud family legacy of service. He began his career in the Coast Guard Reserve before earning an appointment to the United States Coast Guard Academy. Through discipline, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, he earned his “Wings of Gold” and now flies the powerful MH-60T Jayhawk — one of the most capable search-and-rescue platforms in the world. Zach’s path started with a life-altering near-drowning experience as a young boy. What could have been a tragedy became motivation. Swimming lessons turned into competitive success, which led to a Division I scholarship, work as a lifeguard, and eventually a calling to serve — becoming one of the Coast Guard’s elite rescue swimmers. Today, he is the one entering the water in the worst conditions imaginable so others can make it home. In this episode, we discuss incredible real-world rescues and the relentless, constant training that keeps these aircrews sharp and ready at a moment’s notice. We learn more about Air Station Clearwater’s mission set, the vast area they cover, and the extraordinary support personnel behind the scenes — the maintainers, operations specialists, and ground crews — whose expertise makes every launch possible and every rescue achievable. You’ll also gain deeper insight into the MH-60T Jayhawk — its capabilities, mission versatility, and why it remains such a critical asset for maritime search and rescue, law enforcement, and disaster response. From powerful rescue stories to the disciplined preparation that makes them possible, this conversation highlights teamwork, trust, and a shared commitment to saving lives. Thank you to our sponsors  Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch, Precision Aviation Group and SHOTOVER Systems.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus. Thank you to 2026 Blades of Valor Tour sponsor Switlik Survival Products and the support of Massif flight suits. Without your sponsorship and support, this tour would not be possible. Switlik Survival Products supports aviation, marine, military, and search-and-rescue with a wide variety of high-quality survival products. To learn more, go to Switlik.com The Blades of Valor Tour spotlights public safety aviation units recognized for outstanding service and celebrates those who go above and beyond. We aim to promote the good work these agencies do and highlight the standard of excellence they set. These teams serve as a benchmark for the public aviation community. Our mission is to share their stories of unwavering commitment, courage, innovative leadership, teamwork, and technological innovation from agencies setting the standard in public safety aviation. Today’s episode comes to you from inside the hangar at United States Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater — the final stop of the 2026 Blades of Valor Tour. Joining us are MH-60T pilot Lieutenant Commander Nathan Jones and helicopter rescue swimmer Zachary Sowers, two Coast Guard professionals whose journeys to this moment are as inspiring as the missions they fly. Nate comes from a proud family legacy of service. He began his career in the Coast Guard Reserve before earning an appointment to the United States Coast Guard Academy. Through discipline, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, he earned his “Wings of Gold” and now flies the powerful MH-60T Jayhawk — one of the most capable search-and-rescue platforms in the world. Zach’s path started with a life-altering near-drowning experience as a young boy. What could have been a tragedy became motivation. Swimming lessons turned into competitive success, which led to a Division I scholarship, work as a lifeguard, and eventually a calling to serve — becoming one of the Coast Guard’s elite rescue swimmers. Today, he is the one entering the water in the worst conditions imaginable so others can make it home. In this episode, we discuss incredible real-world rescues and the relentless, constant training that keeps these aircrews sharp and ready at a moment’s notice. We learn more about Air Station Clearwater’s mission set, the vast area they cover, and the extraordinary support personnel behind the scenes — the maintainers, operations specialists, and ground crews — whose expertise makes every launch possible and every rescue achievable. You’ll also gain deeper insight into the MH-60T Jayhawk — its capabilities, mission versatility, and why it remains such a critical asset for maritime search and rescue, law enforcement, and disaster response. From powerful rescue stories to the disciplined preparation that makes them possible, this conversation highlights teamwork, trust, and a shared commitment to saving lives. Thank you to our sponsors CENTUM, CNC Technologies and Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus. On this special edition of show, we welcome Tim Lynn, a veteran law enforcement and news gathering pilot with 24 years of flight time in Southern California. We're going to discuss the recent dramatic and sudden changes in airspace throughout the country that seemed to start in the Los Angeles area. Tim shares his experience and knowledge of that airspace, and what he thinks we need to do to get the word out on the realities of operating public safety rotorcraft in these airspaces. We'll discuss the Federal Aviation Administration's recent general notice, eliminating visual separation in B and C airspace. We also discuss what public safety aviation needs to do to inform and educate people making decisions that affect our missions. Many of these missions are life-saving. Join us for this conversation.  It’s an important one, in this special edition of The Hangar Z Podcast. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Metro Aviation and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to the HangerZ podcast brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and partnered with Vertical Valor Plus.  Today's episode was recorded on the floor of Verticon in Atlanta, at the Vertical Plus booth. We had a great week at Verticon and several great conversations and this was one of them. Today's guests are Lt Brad May and Sgt Dustin Gomez of Pasadena Police Department's Air Support Unit.  Lt May has a unique history in the unit. He's been there as an officer, a sergeant, and now the lieutenant of the unit. Great conversation about that.  Sgt Gomez talks about his unique situation, and about learning the ins and outs of the air support unit.   We also discussed the purchase of two new Bell 505s for the unit. They worked with CNC Technologies to get everything done--the whole package. We'll talk about that relationship with CNC, and how unique it is. You don't want to miss this episode.   This was a great conversation on the floor of Verticon. Hope you enjoy it.  Thank you to all our sponsors and thanks to all of you who listen and watch. We really appreciate your support. Don't forget to like and subscribe.  Thank you to our sponsors BLR Aerospace, Dallas Aviation and Metro Aviation.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor. Today we’re joined by a familiar and respected voice in the public safety community, Dr. Tania Glenn. Following her appearances on episodes 176 and 177 of the Hangar Z Podcast, she returns to the show to dive into one of the most critical topics facing our profession: mental wellness. Dr. Glenn brings more than 30 years of experience working with first responders and members of our military, supporting those who operate in high-risk, high-stress environments. She’s the author of 10 books, including two for children, and is a sought-after keynote speaker and instructor, presenting across the country on resilience, wellness, and performance. Dr. Glenn has also contributed insightful articles to Vertical Valor, further connecting her work to the aviation and public safety communities. We’re excited to have her back to continue this important conversation. For more information about Dr. Glenn and her team, visit TaniaGlenn.com. Be sure to also visit smashingthestigma.com to view her latest documentary, Warriors and Healers. Thank you to our sponsors Robinson Helicopter, SHOTOVER Systems and Wysong Enterprises.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Valor +. Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, where we continue our ongoing series of conversations on leadership in law enforcement.  In this episode, we’re joined by two exceptional leaders: Chief Ed Delmore of the Pelham Police Department and Chief Scott Hughes of the Hamilton Township Police Department. Both chiefs bring decades of experience and a proven track record that led them to the highest levels of leadership within their organizations. Beyond the badge, they are also thoughtful voices in the profession, having authored numerous articles on leadership, current events in law enforcement, and tactical considerations. Today, we dive deep into two of those articles and use them as a springboard for a wide-ranging discussion. We explore leadership philosophies, the importance of training, protecting your people, maintaining standards, retention and recruitment, and what it truly means to lead from the front. Chiefs Delmore and Hughes speak candidly about standing for what’s right, applying common sense to leadership, and refusing to tolerate toxic behavior within the ranks. This is an honest, insightful conversation with two chiefs who lead with courage, integrity, and clarity of purpose. No matter your role in law enforcement, there is something to learn from these two incredible leaders. Thank you to MHM Publishing and the Vertical HeliCASTS podcast platform for making all of this possible. Please continue to like, subscribe, and share the Hangar Z Podcast. Thank you to our sponsors Bell, BLR Aerospace and Precision Aviation Group. 

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Valor +. Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, where we continue our ongoing series of conversations on leadership in law enforcement.  In this episode, we’re joined by two exceptional leaders: Chief Ed Delmore of the Pelham Police Department and Chief Scott Hughes of the Hamilton Township Police Department. Both chiefs bring decades of experience and a proven track record that led them to the highest levels of leadership within their organizations. Beyond the badge, they are also thoughtful voices in the profession, having authored numerous articles on leadership, current events in law enforcement, and tactical considerations. Today, we dive deep into two of those articles and use them as a springboard for a wide-ranging discussion. We explore leadership philosophies, the importance of training, protecting your people, maintaining standards, retention and recruitment, and what it truly means to lead from the front. Chiefs Delmore and Hughes speak candidly about standing for what’s right, applying common sense to leadership, and refusing to tolerate toxic behavior within the ranks. This is an honest, insightful conversation with two chiefs who lead with courage, integrity, and clarity of purpose. No matter your role in law enforcement, there is something to learn from these two incredible leaders. Thank you to MHM Publishing and the Vertical HeliCASTS podcast platform for making all of this possible. Please continue to like, subscribe, and share the Hangar Z Podcast. Thank you to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing, CNC Technologies and Metro Aviation.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus. Today’s episode is a powerful and deeply personal conversation about courage, resilience, and determination. Our guest is retired Sgt Yvette Tuning of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Air Support Division. Yvette opens up about a life-changing cancer diagnosis that turned her world upside down—losing her Federal Aviation Administration medical, navigating multiple incorrect diagnoses, and learning firsthand how critical second opinions can be. She shares the physical and emotional toll of cancer treatment, the fight to beat cancer, and the uphill battle to return to work and regain her medical certification. This is an inspiring story of perseverance in the face of uncertainty, but it doesn’t stop there. Yvette also discusses an officer-involved shooting she was part of, the lasting impact of critical incidents, and what strong, authentic leadership looks like inside an aviation unit—especially when things don’t go according to plan. This episode is honest, emotional, and motivating, and it highlights what’s possible when you refuse to quit, even when the odds are stacked against you. Our conversation contains adult topics and language. Settle in—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Thank you to our sponsors Bell, CNC Technologies and Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus. Today’s episode is a powerful and deeply personal conversation about courage, resilience, and determination. Our guest is retired Sgt Yvette Tuning of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Air Support Division. Yvette opens up about a life-changing cancer diagnosis that turned her world upside down—losing her Federal Aviation Administration medical, navigating multiple incorrect diagnoses, and learning firsthand how critical second opinions can be. She shares the physical and emotional toll of cancer treatment, the fight to beat cancer, and the uphill battle to return to work and regain her medical certification. This is an inspiring story of perseverance in the face of uncertainty, but it doesn’t stop there. Yvette also discusses an officer-involved shooting she was part of, the lasting impact of critical incidents, and what strong, authentic leadership looks like inside an aviation unit—especially when things don’t go according to plan. This episode is honest, emotional, and motivating, and it highlights what’s possible when you refuse to quit, even when the odds are stacked against you. Our conversation contains adult topics and language. Settle in—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Thank you to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing, Precision Aviation Group and Robinson Helicopter.

Welcome back to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus.  We’re excited to be on the third stop of the 2026 Blades of Valor Tour, coming to you from the beautiful state of Florida. The Blades of Valor Tour spotlights public safety aviation units recognized for outstanding service, and celebrates those who go above and beyond. We aim to promote the good work these agencies do and highlight the standard of excellence they set.  Thank you to the 2026 Blades of Valor sponsor, Switlik, and the support of Massif Flight Suits. Without your sponsorship and support, this tour would not be possible. These teams serve as the benchmark for the public aviation community. Our mission is to share their stories of unwavering commitment, courage, innovative leadership, teamwork, and technological innovation from agencies setting the standard in public safety aviation, inspiring others to raise the bar in service and safety. Today’s episode was recorded inside the hangar at Miami-Dade Fire Air Rescue, and we’re joined by Capt Jason Vanbuskirk and pilot Alberto Camacho. We’ll dive into the recent regional fly-in held at the base, a Vertical Valor Plus air-to-air photo and video shoot that included the department’s Marine Unit, and an in-depth overview of air rescue operations. You’ll also hear a detailed description of the Leonardo AW139, from crew makeup and mission sets to the equipment that makes these missions possible. And of course, we’ll talk about the incredibly diverse area of operations, spanning dense urban environments, the Everglades, and open water. This is another great discussion on mission readiness and the training required to stay current in a wide variety of skillsets. Many thanks to Vertical Valor Plus, and all our sponsors, for making this Blades of Valor Tour possible. This is a one-of-a-kind tour that includes photography, videography, print, and podcasting. Stayed tuned for lots of original content in the weeks and months ahead.  Thank you to our sponsors CENTUM, SHOTOVER and Wysong Enterprises.