In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast — the fifth of seven episodes highlighting the rescue efforts during the Kerr County, Texas Floods of July 4th, 2025 — host Jason Quinn sits down with two members of the Star Flight crew in Austin, Texas, recorded right from the heart of their operations. Pilot Ryan Kelly and Flight Nurse Katie White

They share their firsthand experiences in helicopter emergency response, recounting daring hoists, life-saving missions, and the intense challenges of responding in high-pressure, rapidly changing environments.

Through their stories, they highlight the critical collaboration between agencies during large-scale disasters and shed light on the often overlooked medical rescue calls that played a major role during the flood response. With advanced life support capabilities onboard, the Star Flight team proved to be an invaluable asset—treating patients in the field, stabilizing critical injuries, and bridging the gap when ground resources were overwhelmed.

This episode offers a gripping look at the skill, coordination, and compassion that define Texas emergency aviation—both in the dramatic hoist missions and in the quieter medical moments that save lives just as profoundly.

Enjoy!

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In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast — the fourth of seven episodes highlighting the rescue efforts during the Kerr County, Texas Floods of July 4th, 2025 — host Jason Quinn joins six members of the Texas Department of Public Safety Aircraft Operations Division: Dustin Gardner, Rob Dorman, Tyason Chow, Dustin Ponce, Eric Herrera, and Brandon Palmer.

Together, this diverse and highly skilled Texas DPS team shares firsthand stories from the world of helicopter emergency response. From their very first real rescues to the recent Kerr County flood operations, the crew offers an inside look at the training, challenges, and defining moments that shaped them into one of Texas’ premier aviation rescue units. They discuss the evolution of their rescue program, the importance of collaboration, and the emotional realities faced during high-stakes missions. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the need for continuous learning, preparedness, and adaptability in the face of unpredictable emergencies.

Enjoy!

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In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast — the third of seven episodes highlighting the rescue efforts during the Kerr County, Texas Floods of July 4th, 2025 — host Jason Quinn sits down with seasoned helicopter search and rescue technicians Bryan Winchell and Cliff Patrick from Texas Task Force One.

Winchell and Patrick share their firsthand accounts of the extreme challenges faced during the Kerrville flood response. They walk through the intricacies of coordinating a multi-agency effort, the adrenaline-filled moments of helping survivors from rapidly rising waters, and the unexpected technical difficulties that tested their skill and composure.

Both rescuers reflect on the intense training that prepared them for these high-stakes missions and the deep camaraderie that fuels their team. From the initial callout to the final rescue, they take us inside the emotional highs and lows of a mission where every second mattered.

This is an inspiring, eye-opening conversation that underscores the power of teamwork, preparation, and resilience in the face of disaster.

Enjoy!

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In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast — the second of seven episodes highlighting the rescue efforts during the Kerr County, Texas Floods of July 4th, 2025 — host Jason Quinn dives into the world of emergency response coordination with DJ Walker, a seasoned rescue captain out of Austin, Texas.

Walker shares his experiences managing the Joint Air Ground Coordination Team, offering a rare inside look at what it takes to synchronize air and ground assets during large-scale rescue operations across Texas. From directing multiple aircraft in dynamic, high-stakes environments to supporting ground crews as conditions change by the minute, his stories reveal the true complexity—and necessity—of precision coordination.

We will get an in-depth look at major rescue events, including the unforgettable Camp Mystic evacuation, where teamwork, communication, and adaptability were key to moving large groups of people to safety. Walker also emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships before disaster strikes, highlighting how trust and familiarity between agencies can make or break a mission.

This episode is a powerful testament to the resilience, collaboration, and commitment of those who work behind the scenes to save lives when chaos unfolds. Enjoy!

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Learn more about Walker's company, Origin Rigging at originrigging.com

In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast—the first of seven episodes highlighting the rescue efforts during the Kerr County, Texas Floods of July 4th, 2025—host Jason Quinn sits down with Mark Moody, a Lieutenant with the San Antonio Fire Department and Squad Leader for Texas Task Force One.

Recording from his home in the heart of Texas, Moody shares powerful firsthand experiences—from his very first water rescue to the harrowing Kerrville incident that pushed his leadership and composure to their limits. His stories provide a vivid, boots-on-the-ground look at the challenges, triumphs, and intensity of the rescue operations on that historic day.

Moody and his boat teams faced unexpected obstacles and fought their way through rapidly rising floodwaters, adapting on the fly to those in distress in a chaotic and dangerous environment.

Enjoy!

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In this ASTerisk episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, recorded in-person at European Rotors in Cologne, Germany, host Jason Quinn sits down with Dave Weber, owner of the Mountain Rescue Collective, National Park Service Climbing Ranger, Flight Paramedic and Keynote Speaker for a powerful discussion on the art of “striving for failure.”

Together, they explore how pushing boundaries and embracing setbacks can reveal personal and professional limits—and ultimately lead to growth, innovation, and stronger, high-performing teams. Through captivating stories from rescue operations and real-world experiences, Weber and Quinn unpack how learning through failure builds resilience, trust, and adaptability in even the most demanding environments.

The conversation also touches on the importance of foundational skills, the power of simplicity, and the role of community in navigating challenges—reminding us that excellence isn’t just about success, but about the willingness to learn, adapt, and keep improving.

Whether you’re part of the rescue community or simply looking for inspiration to grow through adversity, this episode delivers valuable lessons in resilience, leadership, and continuous learning. Enjoy!

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Book Weber for technical rescue trainings, keynote speaking engagements or for rescue program assessments at mountainrescuecollective.com

In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn sits down with members of the rescue team from Utah Department of Public Safety, Luke Bowman, Alan Smith and Nick Napierki, to recount a challenging cliff rescue mission that tested their training, teamwork, and communication under pressure.

The crew shares their firsthand experiences from the initial plan and coordination to the execution of the rescue. They highlight how communication, trust, and preparation played a critical role in the mission’s success. They reflect on the challenges faced along the way, the lessons learned during the debrief, and what it’s like to perform in an environment where every move counts.

Through their story, the team underscores the importance of consistent training, readiness, and adaptability, offering valuable insights for anyone involved in search and rescue or high-risk operations.

This episode is a powerful reminder that behind every successful mission lies a foundation of discipline, teamwork, and unshakable commitment to saving lives. Enjoy!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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