So There I Was

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Fins on Pigs Episode 94 Feb 15, 2024

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In this riotous saga, a quartet of RePete, Fig, Sticks, and the impossibly chill pilot Ice (who's cooler than a yeti's icebox) - embark on a whirlwind of sky-high shenanigans. Ice, a maestro of the skies, has tamed both SH-60 helicopters and UH-1s in realms chillier than a snowman's handshake—yep, Antarctica. He unveils tales of aerial school antics, including how to auto-rotate and that jaw-dropping moment when SH-60 float bags decided to throw a surprise party mid-air. Ice's adventures span the globe, from a raucous initiation in Rota, Spain, that likely bent a few international rules, to onboard frolics that make pirate life seem downright orderly. Ever heard of the Great Potato Count during the Gulf War? That's Ice's unique take on military strategy. He reveals some of the hilariously bizarre tradition of pilot call signs and pranks that would give sitcom writers a run for their money, alongside stunts that laugh in the face of physics. Venturing into Antarctica wasn't just flying; it was a blend of sorcery and survival, especially mastering the "Happy Camper School," which was anything but a walk in the park. And for what was almost the grand "finale," Ice shares how he once tamed a helicopter with no tail rotor authority, and describes the Antarctic version of slinging 'livestock' - hence "Fins on Pigs.” Buckle up for a hilariously turbulent journey that showcases the uproarious, untold tales of aviation bravado in the wintry wilds. As for comebackyoga.org, it's a beacon of zen for veterans, turning downward dogs into upward spirits with yoga mats as magic carpets. Who knew bending could be so mending?

Explaining Space to Neil Armstrong Episode 93 Feb 08, 2024

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In an engaging episode, Gallo shares more unforgettable tales from his time as a test pilot. He tells of his first time flying a two-seat “T AV-8” marked by a canopy incident that almost ended disastrously. The conversation takes an unexpectedly humorous turn when Gallo finds himself explaining the nuances of space travel to none other than Neil Armstrong, the pioneer of lunar exploration. This moment, filled with irony and laughter, highlights Gallo's unique ability to bridge generations and disciplines. Through this story, listeners are given a rare glimpse into the challenges and the importance of mentorship and humility that marked this exceptional aviator’s career.

Got Me a SAG Card Episode 92 Feb 01, 2024

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Dive into an extraordinary tale of survival with Guvna as he shares his heart-stopping experience of cheating death by mere milliseconds. From an unassuming start on a routine flight, fate takes a dramatic turn, thrusting him into a pulse-pounding showdown against the odds. Witness the incredible interplay of sheer luck, piloting prowess, masterful engineering, and the unforgiving forces of nature, all converging in a moment that could have been his last. Discover how Guvna emerged from the depths of a treacherous swamp, greeted by a couple of Bubbas... Really! This is not just a story; it's a testament to the thin line between life and death. Tune in for an episode you simply don't want to miss! Sweet Tweet - "I had one moment in time during the (mishap) sequence where if I hadn't let myself be distracted, I would have probably had an opportunity to fly (the jet) out. ... But that incredible failure is key to who I have become." — Lt. Col. Bo McGowan (photo by Tech. Sgt. Matthew Hannen) Lt. Col. Bo McGowan and Maj. Jeff Grayson, members of the 97th Flying Training Squadron, prepare for their four-ship formation flight Oct. 2. This will be the last such formation flight at Sheppard for the T-37 Tweet as the transition to the T-6 Texan begins in 2008. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Tonnette Thompson)

Treetop Level Across Gabon Episode 91 Jan 25, 2024

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Fasten your seatbelts and prepare for a high-flying adventure with Kerry McCauley, the intrepid author of "Ferry Pilot" and "Dangerous Flights" as well as star of the Discovery Channel show by the same name; "Dangerous Flights." He's touching down on our show to share his thrilling and often unpredictable experiences in ferrying light civilian aircraft over oceans and through remote, challenging landscapes. These are places where these planes are as out of place as a penguin in the Sahara! Kerry's stories are packed with suspense and surprises, reminding us that making it to the other side in one piece is more of a hope than a guarantee. Don't miss out on episode 91 - it's an aerial journey that promises more twists and turns than a roller coaster! 🛩️🌍

Blues Brothers Episode 90 Jan 18, 2024

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Get ready for the finale of our chat with the one and only Gallo! This isn't just any interview - it's a rollercoaster ride through the epic tales of a man who practically became one with his Harrier jet. Picture this: a career so gripping, Gallo didn't hang up his Harrier flying even after bidding adieu to the Marine Corps. Oh, and remember "Kaos" from episodes 45 and 46? He and Gallo go way back and the reference to Art are about him! Strap in for this episode. It's not just enlightening; it's a peek into the life of a Marine aviation icon who climbed to Major General. Spoiler alert: he originally thought he'd just do four years and vanish into civilian life.

He Cold-cocked Me! Episode 89 Jan 11, 2024

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Gallo joins us to talk about his time at the Naval Aceademy, why he chose the Marines and only planned to stay in for 4 years, flight school with the Air Force, Flying Phantoms in Combat in Vietnam, his transition to Harriers, Test Pilot assignments and much much more! A true legend of Marine Aviation - This is the first half of two shows with Gallo... Enjoy! Enola Gay Crew Paul Tibbets

Smoke in the Tube Episode 88 Jan 04, 2024

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Join us for an enthralling episode. We delve into the remarkable life story of Butch Rutt, a man of many talents and experiences. A high school dropout turned Navy P-3 Pilot, Rutt's journey is anything but ordinary. From his time as a bail bondsman to his role in Customs & Border Patrol, his diverse career has been filled with unique challenges and adventures. One highlight of this episode is Rutt's harrowing tale of being 1000 miles over the Pacific Ocean, facing an onboard fire. This episode promises to captivate listeners with its mix of suspense, danger, and the inspiring story of a man who continually overcame life's unexpected turns. Tune in to for an experience that's both exhilarating and deeply human.

So There I Was: Best Stories Ever Part 2 Episode 87 Dec 28, 2023

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This week we look back at the last 18 months and bring you some of the best of the stories and guests who have graciously spent time with us and shared their stories. We have Chaz, Moose, Bonnie, Father, Lawman, Yogi & Master, Vapor and Fister. Then the Dos Gringos close it out with I'm a Pilot! 🧑‍✈️ 🛩️ Happy New Year! See you in '24! And the photos this week are, again, courtesy of Brad Silcott at BDSAviationPhotography.com - The theme of these is focused on the pilots and crews of these magnificent flying machines! Kudos, Brad for some amazing shots! Thank you.

So There I Was: Best Stories Ever Part 1 Episode 86 Dec 21, 2023

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This week we look back at the last 18 months and bring you some of the best of the stories and guests who have graciously spent time with us and shared their stories. We have Nasty, Capt Royce Williams, Gunny, Kemo, One-Eye, Taco, Sugar, Double-L, Air-Cav-Chris & The Dos Gringos close it out with Jeremiah Weed! Photos below are courtesy of Brad Silcott at BDSAviationPhotography.comTHANK YOU, Brad for allowing us to see your amazing work!8 Cobra VMA-542 Tigers CH-46 Sea Knight CH-53 Stallion

The 5th Day the Ship Blew Up Episode 85 Dec 14, 2023

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Capt. Dave Dollarhide USN (ret) “Hide” honored us by spending an evening with us talking about his amazing career as a Naval Aviator. Currently the editor of the A-4Ever Skyhawk Journal online at Skyhawk.org, Hide brings us along on his journey from NAvCad in the mid 60s to the horrific day of July 29, 1967 while he was in his A-4 getting ready to launch from the USS Forrestal and a Zuni rocket misfired into the 400 gallon fuel tank of the A-4 parked next to him. When it was all over more than 134 Sailors and Marines had perished and another 167 including him were injured. Hear his first-hand account of that horrific day. But it doesn’t end there. Hide’s aviation career and excitement was just getting started! Hear about his combat missions in Vietnam, his ejection from another A-4, flying the airshow circuit in A-4s into his 70s and how he survived a mid-air collision in an RV-4 when, sadly, the other pilot was lost. This is not an episode you want to skip. Buckle in and hang on for a piece of aviation history! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1Sr6gpdNC8

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