The AirPower Hour

Making Dad Proud | MSgt Jordan Lloyd Feb 06, 2024

Welcome back to another episode of The AirPower Hour! On today's episode I had the awesome opportunity to sit down with MSgt Jordan Lloyd.

MSgt Lloyd started her Air Force career as a mechanic and moved on to the Recruiting career field. She was selected to help create the new computer program that recruiters use to complete the enlistment process for future Airmen. This is a monumental task and MSgt Lloyd has an integral part in the future of recruiting for the Air and Space Force. In this episode we talked about why she decided to join and one of the largest influencers in her life, her Dad. MSgt Lloyd will be a lifelong friend of mine, one of the many I have had the honor to gain by joining the Air Force.
Enjoy the story of MSgt Jordan Lloyd.

From Chemist to Commander | Lt Col Ben Schulze Nov 03, 2023

Welcome back to the latest and greatest episode of The AirPower Hour. On this episode I had the opportunity to sit down with the new Commander of the 347th Recruiting Squadron, Lt Colonel Benjamin Schulze.

After graduating from the Air Force Academy with a degree in Chemistry, Col Schulze became one of the very few chemists in the Air Force. Over his 17-year career he has held multiple positions in assignments all over the world.

The Air Force allowed Col Schulze to pursue his Doctorate at the University of Florida where he ultimately met his Wife Monica.

He has now assumed command of all active-duty Air and Space Force recruiting efforts throughout Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, and even the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Practicing for Life | Scott Knight Oct 20, 2023

Welcome back to the AirPower Hour, on this episode I had the opportunity to sit down with Mr. Scott Knight, the husband of our former Squadron Commander Lt Colonel Knight and current civilian working hand in hand with the Air Force Intelligence career field.

Scott served in the Air Force under the active duty component, as well as the Air Force reserve. He continued his career serving in a civilian capacity along with being a supportive spouse and father to his Wife and kids.

Originally from California, Scott traveled all over the world during his career with a two year stop in the great state of Wisconsin as his wife took lead of our recruiting squadron. It was an honor to have the Knight family join our recruiting family and wonderful to have the opportunity to sit down with Scott to hear his story.

Breaking Barriers with #19 | CMSAF Joanne S. Bass Sep 06, 2023

On this special episode of The AirPower Hour, we had the opportunity to sit down with the 19th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, Joanne Bass.

After growing up in a military family, Chief Bass joined the Air Force in 1993 and after 30 years has held a multitude of roles including leadership positions at the squadron, group, wing, and major command levels.

As the Senior Enlisted Leader of the United States Air Force, CMSAF Joanne S. Bass represents the highest enlisted level of leadership, and as such, provides direction for the enlisted force and represents their interests, as appropriate, to the American public and to those in all levels of government. She has significant joint service and special operation experience and has participated in several operations and exercises as well as deployments in direct support of Operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom.

Born to Serve | TSgt Bailey Snipes Jul 26, 2023

Welcome back to another episode of The AirPower Hour, on this episode I sit down with an Airman Leadership School Instructor from Moody Air Force Base Georgia, TSgt Bailey Snipes.

Hailing from Southern Florida, Sgt Snipes decided to join the Air Force at a young age while growing up in a very patriotic household. Before even joining she spent her high school years in a Junior ROTC program cementing her preparation to serve.

After getting her first choice of jobs, Sgt Snipes set off on her journey and to her first assignment at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota, as a Security Forces Defender.

Her time in North Dakota ultimately led her to Moody AFB, where she became an Airman Leadership School Instructor. Her position is responsible for mentoring and teaching new Non-Commissioned Officers on how to be excellent in all they do.

It was great sitting down with TSgt Snipes and hearing her story. She even makes a very special announcement on the podcast so be sure to tune in!

For more information go to AirForce.com or SpaceForce.com

Port Dawgs for Life | TSgt Richard Shepard Jun 01, 2023

On this episode I sat down with TSgt Richard Shepard a former fellow Aerial Port Dawg and currently in transition to being an Officer Accessions Recruiter in Raleigh North Carolina.

After joining at 17 years old, TSgt Shepard a native of North Carolina traveled all over the world during his time in the Air Transportation career field.

During his travels all over the world, he took an assignment in Honduras at Soto Cano Air Base where we eventually met his Wife. Not long after that they moved to New Jersey at Joint Base McGuire Dix Lakehurst where they started a family.

With one assignment left before he qualifies for retirement from the Air Force, TSgt Shepard can complete his 20 years of military service at the young age of 37.

Lifelong Learning with #18 | Kaleth O. Wright May 10, 2023

On this episode I had the honor of sitting down with one of the most beloved leaders in Air Force History.

As the 18th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, Kaleth Wright set out to make significant changes in the Air Force enterprise, which drew the approval and admiration of many enlisted members, so much so that Kaleth’s nickname among a lot of the members in the force was Enlisted Jesus.

It wasn’t just the change from our grey Airman Battle Uniform to the more functional OCP uniforms or the multitude of other changes his team made, but was the people first mentality he used to raise morale across the Air Force. Kaleth discusses how he is a lifelong learner and is continually learning new leadership and life tools. With almost 32 years of dedicated service to the Air Force and 3 more as the CEO of the Air Force Aid Society, Kaleth Wright is truly one of the greatest leaders we have ever had.

If you’d like to get more information on all the amazing opportunities the Air and Space Force has to offer, go to airforce.com and spaceforce.com

The Round Metal Object | Lt Col Alexei Kambalov Apr 27, 2023

Lt Colonel Alexei Kambalov is the Commander of the 348th Line Officer Recruiting Squadron. He was born in Moscow Russia and moved to the United States when he was 11 years old.

He graduated from college with a degree in engineering and decided to join the Air Force as a biomedical troop. After meeting his wife on the enlisted side of the Air Force, Lt Col Kambalov transitioned to become an Officer.

In this episode, we discuss his 20 years of faithful service and the significant meaning behind a round metal object.

Learn more at Airforce.com and SpaceForce.com

Influencing the Next Generation | Sam Eckholm Apr 12, 2023

As an Air Force Academy graduate, Sam Eckholm received an opportunity of a lifetime to be the Public Affairs representative for the F-22 Raptor Demo team.

This opportunity opened the door for Sam to become one of the leading content creators for not only the Air Force but for all Aerospace and Defense.

Sam's YouTube channel has amassed more than 33 million views due to his magnificent way of showcasing the World's greatest Air Power. He stresses that the quality of his long form videos was one of the most important pieces to his success, which drove him to separate from the Air Force and start creating content full time.

You can find Sam on:
Instagram - @sameckholm
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@SamEckholm
Facebook - @sameckholm

To learn more go to Airforce.com or Spaceforce.com

Continuing a Family Legacy in the Air Force | TSgt Renee Polk Mar 29, 2023

This week I had the opportunity to sit down with an Enlisted Accessions recruiter out of Chicago, TSgt Renee Polk. TSgt Polk was quite literally born into the Air Force, both of her parents proudly served and retired as enlisted members. After traveling all over the world with her family, TSgt Polk finally settled in Florida, where she played college basketball at the University of West Florida. TSgt Polk enlisted at the age of 25 and has been following in her parent's footsteps as a stellar Airman. She explains that no matter what is thrown at you, to trust the process and have a great mindset while doing so.

To learn more, go to Airforce.com or Spaceforce.com

Moving with a Purpose with a Military Training Instructor | TSgt Sarah Giard Mar 17, 2023

On this episode of The AirPower Hour, I sat down with United States Air Force Master Military Training Instructor TSgt Sarah Giard.

A 12 year veteran, TSgt Giard started her career in the Air Force as a Security Forces Defender. Originally from Maine, she has been stationed all over the country to include North Dakota and New Jersey. In her current Special Duty position as a Military Training Instructor, TSgt Giard has been pivotal in training civilians to become Airmen or Guardians in the World's Greatest Air and Space Forces.

TSgt Giard shares her insight and perspective on Basic Military Training and provides advice for anyone preparing to start their Air Force journey.

To learn more go to Airforce.com or Spaceforce.com

The Significance of Making Connections | First Sergeant MSgt Anthony Jordan Mar 01, 2023

In this episode I sit down with the 347th Recruiting Squadron's First Sergeant MSgt Anthony Jordan.

With 19 years of service, MSgt Jordan has been stationed all over the world in his previously held position as a Flying Crew Chief. After years of dedication to his Country as a maintainer in the Air Force, MSgt Jordan decided to pursue the highly coveted position of a First Sergeant.

A First Sergeant's main responsibilities are to be a primary advisor to a Unit Commander on all things pertinent to mission success.

MSgt Jordan found that the best and most important roles as a First Sergeant were to make connections and ensure that Airmen understood that he was there to work for them. It was a joy to have MSgt Jordan on the show as he is a key part of our Unit's cohesiveness and success.

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

The Strength of Positivity with an In-Service Recruiter | MSgt Jason Madigan Feb 15, 2023

On today's episode, my guest is MSgt Jason Madigan, the In-Service Recruiter for the Air Force Reserves at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa Florida.

I had the pleasure of being office partners with MSgt Madigan while serving as recruiters and we quickly became life long brothers. From being born in New Zealand to moving to Mishawaka Indiana and enlisting into the Air Force as an active duty member, MSgt Madigan started his career as a firefighter.

While stationed in England, Honduras, and Panama City Beach Florida MSgt Madigan learned that leading with your best foot forward and having a positive outlook on life allowed him to have an amazing career in the Air Force.

It was amazing to catch up with my good friend, and he has a great story with a lot of twists and turns. So, without further ado....MSgt Jason Madigan.

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

Striving for Greatness with an Air Force Honor Guardsman | TSgt Allison Bell Feb 01, 2023

In this episode we sit down with TSgt Allison Bell, a former Air Force Honor Guardsman and current Air Force recruiter in Moline, Illinois. She told us her story about how she was selected during Basic Training to join the Honor Guard and then continued her career in Aerospace Medicine. TSgt Bell also explained how she got into competing as a fitness model and her pursuit of her Master's degree.

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

Globetrotting with a Power Pro Troop | SSgt Bryce Conkle Jan 18, 2023

SSgt Bryce Conkle is an Enlisted Accessions Recruiter at the 347th Recruiting Squadron.

With 11 years in the service SSgt Conkle has been stationed all over the United States to include Hawaii and Las Vegas. As an Electrical Power Production troop, he had the opportunity to travel to over 60 different countries.

Now as a recruiter, SSgt Conkle explains that his main goal is to spread awareness to individuals in his community that the Air Force is an amazing career opportunity.

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

The Power of Resiliency w/ an Enlisted Accessions Flight Chief | MSgt Zachariah Earle Jan 04, 2023

On this episode, I sit down with MSgt Zachariah Earle, an Enlisted Accessions Flight Chief with the 347th Recruiting Squadron. Georgia native MSgt Earle talks about his difficult and trying journey entering the Air Force as a young adult with a new child. He also spoke about his time in Baton Rouge Louisiana as an enlisted recruiter and how he had to overcome a natural disaster that completely flooded his home.

After 14 years and four deployments, he shares how much of an impact using gratitude has had on his career. MSgt Earle provides insight into how to be successful and not to take things for granted. He also shares important information for anyone interested in joining the World's Greatest Airpower.

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

The Heroism of Captain Lance P. Sijan | Janine Sijan Rozina Dec 23, 2022

This week's special holiday episode of The AirPower Hour features Ms. Janine Sijan, sister to Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Lance P. Sijan.

During a bombing mission malfunction over Laos in November 1967, Sijan violently ejected from his F-4C aircraft and suffered a fractured skull, compound fracture of his left leg, and a mangled right hand. Despite those injuries and being without food and water, Sijan managed to evade enemy forces for 45 days, before finally being captured by the Viet Cong on Christmas Day.

During the interview with The AirPower Hour's host Tech. Sgt Lee Ciokiewicz, Janine shares the powerful and heartbreaking story of her brother's legacy. She describes in detail those agonizing 45 days her brother spent fighting for his life, his time as a prisoner of war in the infamous Hanoi Hilton, and his eventual death in the arms of his fellow POWs.

Janine discussed getting Lance's class ring back from the jungles of Laos years after he passed away, courtesy of President Reagan. The scratched and dented ring, which she wore during the interview, is now a talisman she cherishes.

Janine said it is her life's mission to share Lance's story with the world. She explains how she has been working for years to create a documentary that honors her brother and his heroic story. She also emphasized how important their hometown of Milwaukee has been to help her efforts, Janine had a plaza built to memorialize her brother at the General Mitchell Airport, and the Team Sijan community offers her unwavering support.

Finally, she explains how her brother's Christmas day capture has shaped what the holiday means to her. She movingly implores listeners to reflect on who they are, what their purpose is in this world, and urges them to consider what they have in common with her brother's "modern day parable."

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

From Bama to the Frozen Tundra w/ an Operations NCO | TSgt Jason Keith Dec 14, 2022

In this episode, I sit down with my office partner and fellow Operations NCO, Technical Sergeant Jason Keith. He tells his Air Force story beginning in the great state of Alabama (Roll Tide).

From his first assignment as an Ammunitions troop in Tucson, Arizona to his time and South Korea and Florida, TSgt Keith shared the importance of having solid leadership and being open to the ever changing journey that the Air Force presents.

Enjoy listening to TSgt Keith's journey!

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

The Art of Leadership with a Special Operator | Lt Col Jerad Warren Nov 30, 2022

Greetings everyone and welcome back to the Air Power hour. TSgt Check here and today I had the opportunity to sit down with Lt Col Jerad Warren, the Air Force ROTC Detachment Commander at Marquette University here in lovely Milwaukee Wisconsin. In his current position he oversees all facets of recruiting, training, and education for about 70 Air Force Officer candidates per year. After graduating from the Air Force Academy in 2003, Col Warren entered the Combat Control pipeline and completed Army Airborne school, Air Traffic Control school, and Special Forces Military free fall school, along with many others. With almost 20 years of military experience and over 10 deployments in support of overseas contingency operations throughout the Middle East, Col Warren shared some amazing advice on how important foundational leadership is to the success of the mission.

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

Cheese Curds and Changing the World with the Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force | CMSSF Roger Towberman Nov 17, 2022

Welcome back to The AirPower Hour!

This week I had the honor to sit down with the highest enlisted member of the newest military branch. Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force, Roger Towberman.

Both being natives of Wisconsin, it’s natural that we discussed Wisconsin sports and the key to the perfect consistency of cheese curds.

With 30 years of service in the Air Force as an Airborne Linguist, 19 deployments, and holding multiple leadership positions. Chief Towberman was selected to become the first senior enlisted leader of the Space Force.

After two and a half years in his current position, Chief explains in this episode that his goal is not to get stuff done but to change the world.

Lastly, Chief Towberman shared how important it is in life to stay true yourself and being present. I can’t thank Chief enough for coming on the show, his love for what he does is truly infectious.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Without further ado, the Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force, Roger Towberman

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

Going Mach One at 50,000 feet with F-15 Fighter Pilot | Lt Col Jason Turner Nov 02, 2022

In this episode of The AirPower Hour we are joined by F-15 Fighter Pilot and current Air Force Recruiting Services Chief of Operations, Lt Colonel Jason Turner. Colonel Turner has served in the Air Force for 23 years, beginning as an ROTC cadet and continuing his decorated career as a pilot, instructor, and Commander. As a pilot, Colonel Turner has logged over 3100 hours in the air, too include his time in the F-15C which is an air to air combat variant of the F-15 Eagle, one of the most dominant weapon systems in the world. Colonel Turner had some amazing advice for anyone interested in joining the Air and Space Force and it was an absolute please to sit down with him to hear his story.

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

Into the Life of the Air Force Recruiting Service Command Chief | CMSgt Antonio Golstrom Oct 26, 2022

Welcome to episode four of The AirPower Hour. Joining me this week is the Command Chief of the Air Force Recruiting Service, Chief Master Sergeant Antonio Goldstrom. Chief Goldstrom joined the Air Force from Las Vegas, Nevada in 1993. Throughout his 29 year career, he has held a multitude of leadership positions in many locations around the world, to include proudly serving as a First Sergeant for over six years. As the Senior Enlisted Leader, Chief Goldstrom executes the Commander's intent and is responsible for advising on all aspects of employment, training, readiness, resilience, and development of recruiters and staff operating from over 1,000 recruiting stations worldwide. In our conversation, Chief gave some sound advice for both new Airman and everyone currently serving. It was an honor to sit down with Chief and I want to thank him for giving me the opportunity to do this. Enjoy this episode of The AirPower Hour!

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

To Infinity and Beyond, our First Space Force interview | Lt Col Patrisha Knight Oct 19, 2022

On today's episode our guest is the Commander of the 347th Recruiting Squadron, Lt Colonel Patrisha Knight. Colonel Knight is originally from Iowa and has served for 18 years. Her journey began as an ROTC Cadet at Colorado State University and continued with multiple assignments and a deployment as an Intelligence Officer. She applied for a Command position and when she received her assignment to the 347th, she also transitioned to become one of the founding members of the United States Space Force. Enjoy episode 3 of The AirPower Hour!

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

Recovering Lost POW/MIA with Public Affairs NCO | TSgt Apryl Hall Oct 12, 2022

Welcome to Episode 2 of The AirPower Hour! In this episode, I sit down with Michigan-native Tech. Sgt. Apryl Hall from the 347th Recruiting Squadron. TSgt Hall is the Public Affairs NCO for the squadron and has a multitude of jobs, whether it's attacking the digital media front or connecting our recruiters with the general public. TSgt Hall has been in the Air Force for 10 years and we talk about her unique and fulfilling mission with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency or DPAA during her tour in Hawaii. Listen to her story and she talks about her ten missions to go over in former areas of conflict to recover MIA and POW remains in order to bring them back how to their families. Thank you for listening and enjoy the show! For more information on the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency: Instagram - @dodpaa Facebook - https://www.Facebook.com/dodpaa Website - dpaa.mil

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

Leading from the Front with the Commander of Air Force Recruiting | Maj General Edward Thomas Oct 05, 2022

Welcome to the premiere of The AirPower Hour! On this episode I had the pleasure and opportunity to speak with the Air Force Recruiting Services Commander, Major General Edward Thomas Jr. He shared his Air Force story that began in 1990 at Texas A&M University as a cadet. Throughout his illustrious 32 year career, General Thomas has traveled all over the world and has done so with the amazing support of his family. As the Air Force Recruiting Services Commander, he leads a group comprised of more than 2,800 Airmen and civilians and approximately 1,040 recruiting offices across the U.S. and abroad. It was an honor to sit down and speak with General Thomas, I hope you enjoy this episode of The AirPower Hour!

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

Host Introduction Sep 26, 2022

In this special episode of The AirPower Hour the listeners get an opportunity to find out who the host of the podcast is.

TSgt Lee Ciokiewicz is a 16 year Active-Duty Air Force member with a passion for listening to the stories of Airman and Guardians.

Enjoy this host introduction before the podcast is officially released on October 5th, National Military Podcast Day!

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

Podcast Trailer Sep 23, 2022

Welcome to the trailer of The AirPower Hour!

In this podcast you will hear the chronicles of Airmen and Guardians from all walks of life. We'll learn why they joined, what they do, and how the military has shaped them personally and professionally.

We hope you enjoy getting a glimpse of what life is like being a part of the World's Greatest Air and Space Power.

Podcast will officially launch October 5th!

Learn more at Airforce.com or SpaceForce.com

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