The Hangar Z Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Episode 234 - Tim Tucker: A legacy of 54 years in aviation Part I Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.

In this two-part series, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray are thrilled to welcome Tim Tucker, a seasoned aviator with an extraordinary 54-year career in aviation.

Tim shares compelling stories from his time flying the Bell Huey helicopter during the Vietnam War, detailing the unique missions of the 57th Assault Helicopter Company, famously known as the Gladiators. This episode offers a deep exploration of military aviation and the personal experiences that shape a pilot's career.

As the conversation unfolds, Tim discusses the complexities of inserting and extracting recon teams in hostile situations, the vital role of fast movers in support missions, and the importance of crew trust during combat. He also reflects on his transition to flight instruction, his contributions to the Robinson R22 helicopter's development, and his impactful collaboration with Frank Robinson.

We'll hear about the evolution of helicopter training and safety courses that have significantly reduced instructional accidents, his experiences with foreign pilot licensing, and the key lessons learned throughout his extensive career. Tim talks about his role as a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) designated pilot examiner, highlighting common mistakes pilots make during check rides and the necessity of understanding airspace regulations.

With memorable anecdotes and practical safety tips, this episode is packed with insights for every helicopter enthusiast. Join us in celebrating Tim's achievements, including his recent induction into the Flight Instructor's Hall of Fame, and learn about the innovative techniques he's championed throughout his remarkable journey.
Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Night Flight Concepts and Precision Aviation Group.

Episode 233 Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department: Henry One Part 2 Feb 13, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.

In this two-part series, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray talk with members of the Sonoma County Sheriff's Department's Henry One, including unit supervisor Chris Haas, pilot Nigel Cooper, and tactical flight officer Lawrence Matelli.

This is a unique project in conjunction with Vertical Valor, The Real ResQ Podcast, and Hangar Z. The article from Vertical Valor is available now at Verticalmag.com.

Our conversation with the crew of Henry One explores their impactful work and provides insight into the world of the multi-mission airborne law enforcement unit.

We get an opportunity to discuss Henry One’s history, mission profiles, crew dynamics, aircraft performance, long-lining operations, and the importance of training documentation. They emphasize the significance of smooth operations, the evolution of their training programs, and the critical nature of competency and currency in high-stakes environments.

We talk about the importance of collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies, focusing on the operational dynamics of the Sonoma County Sheriff's aviation unit.

This conversation focuses on teamwork, communication, and personal stories from significant events like the Tubbs fire, where Henry One emphasizes the dedication of law enforcement officers in the face of disaster.

Thank you to our sponsors CNC Technologies, Dallas Avionics and SHOTOVER.

Episode 232 Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department: Henry One Part 1 Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.

This is a unique project in conjunction with Vertical Valor, The Real ResQ Podcast, and Hangar Z. The article from Vertical Valor is available now at Verticalmag.com.

Our conversation with the crew of Henry One explores their impactful work and provides insight into the world of the multi-mission airborne law enforcement unit.

We talk about the importance of collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies, focusing on the operational dynamics of the Sonoma County Sheriff's aviation unit.

Thank you to our sponsors Dallas Avionics, Night Flight Concepts, and Bell.

Episode 231 - Leadership Series with Clint Pulver: I Love it Here Part II Feb 06, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.

In this two-part leadership series episode, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Clint Pulver, an Emmy Award winner, author, keynote speaker, pro drummer, helicopter pilot, and partner in the helicopter apparel company Heli Life.

During our conversation, we explore the vital role of effective leadership in the realms of public safety and aviation.

Clint shares his inspiring journey from aspiring helicopter pilot to professional speaker and author, shedding light on the urgent need for transformative leadership training and its profound effect on organizational culture and employee retention.

Drawing from his insightful Undercover Millennial research, highlighted in the book he wrote titled “I Love it Here,” Clint reveals a truth we know too well: Employees often leave their bosses, not their jobs.

During the conversation, they discuss the importance of mentorship over mere management and the power of genuine connection in leadership.

Throughout this enlightening conversation, Clint tackles the common disconnect in leadership and the significance of "time affluence" in fostering meaningful relationships.

With a focus on positivity, recognition, and personal connection, Clint advocates for a leadership approach that enriches employees' lives and cultivates a culture of mentorship and engagement.

We mentioned that Clint is a partner at Heli Life, which is the apparel brand designed for helicopter pilots, operators, maintenance crews, aviation enthusiasts, and everything in-between.

Heli Life is pilot-owned-and-operated, with a design team that has worked incredibly hard to engineer and create the perfect gear and apparel that enhances the flying experience and love of aviation while also providing comfort, style, and durability that lasts.

All Hangar Z listeners can visit helilife.shop today and use the promo code “hangarz” (all one word) to receive 15% off their first order. Enjoy, and live life airborne!

Thank you to our sponsors Metro Aviation, CNC Technologies and Robinson Helicopter.

Episode 230 - Leadership Series with Clint Pulver: I Love it Here Part I Feb 03, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.

During our conversation, we explore the vital role of effective leadership in the realms of public safety and aviation.

During the conversation, they discuss the importance of mentorship over mere management and the power of genuine connection in leadership.

Throughout this enlightening conversation, Clint tackles the common disconnect in leadership and the significance of "time affluence" in fostering meaningful relationships.

With a focus on positivity, recognition, and personal connection, Clint advocates for a leadership approach that enriches employees' lives and cultivates a culture of mentorship and engagement.

We mentioned that Clint is a partner at Heli Life, which is the apparel brand designed for helicopter pilots, operators, maintenance crews, aviation enthusiasts, and everything in-between.

All Hangar Z listeners can visit helilife.shop today and use the promo code “hangarz” (all one word) to receive 15% off their first order. Enjoy, and live life airborne!
Thank you to our sponsors Metro Aviation, Precision Aviation Group and Robinson Helicopter.

Episode 229 - Drone Integration in Public Safety Aviation with Lt. Clay Lacey Part II Jan 30, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.
In this episode of The Hangar Z Podcast, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are joined by Lt. Clay Lacey from Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to discuss the integration of drones with manned aircraft in law enforcement operations.
They discuss how collaboration between drone and aviation programs plays a crucial role in enhancing effectiveness and safety in airborne law enforcement.
Lt. Lacey shares valuable insights on the importance of proper training, communication, and structure within these units, emphasizing how effective teamwork between drone operators and ground teams is essential.
Through real-world examples, they illustrate the challenges faced during operations and underscore the significance of integrating drone programs within traditional aviation units.
The conversation also covers tactical insights gained from training, the enhancement of airborne intelligence through drones, and the evolving landscape of aviation technology. As they explore the future of collaboration between manned and unmanned aviation, they highlight the importance of professional training, mental health awareness, and leadership within law enforcement agencies. Additionally, they address the challenges posed by unauthorized drone flights and the critical need for cohesive operations between different aerial platforms.
Thank you to our sponsors BLR Aerospace, Garmin and Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch

Episode 228 - Drone Integration in Public Safety Aviation with Lt. Clay Lacey Part I Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.
In this episode of The Hangar Z Podcast, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are joined by Lt. Clay Lacey from Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to discuss the integration of drones with manned aircraft in law enforcement operations.
They discuss how collaboration between drone and aviation programs plays a crucial role in enhancing effectiveness and safety in airborne law enforcement.
Lt. Lacey shares valuable insights on the importance of proper training, communication, and structure within these units, emphasizing how effective teamwork between drone operators and ground teams is essential.
Through real-world examples, they illustrate the challenges faced during operations and underscore the significance of integrating drone programs within traditional aviation units.
The conversation also covers tactical insights gained from training, the enhancement of airborne intelligence through drones, and the evolving landscape of aviation technology. As they explore the future of collaboration between manned and unmanned aviation, they highlight the importance of professional training, mental health awareness, and leadership within law enforcement agencies. Additionally, they address the challenges posed by unauthorized drone flights and the critical need for cohesive operations between different aerial platforms.
Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Robinson Helicopter and Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch

Episode 227 - Natural Disaster Responses: A Coast Guard Perspective with Scott Kellerman Part II Jan 23, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.

In this two-part series, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely sit down with Lieutenant Commander Scott Kellerman, U.S. Coast Guard pilot. Join us as Scott shares his remarkable journey from a Southern California upbringing to the prestigious U.S. Naval Academy, detailing the challenges and traditions that shaped his career in aviation.

We'll explore how Scott's experiences at air shows ignited his passion for flight and led him to serve during critical moments, including responses to many natural disasters including hurricanes, earthquakes, and the Fukushima tsunami and nuclear disaster in 2011.

Scott brings us his insights on leadership, crisis management, and the significance of networking in emergency response. Scott's compelling anecdotes will take you behind the scenes of search-and-rescue missions, and highlight the importance of preparation and decision-making in the face of adversity.
Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group, Bell, and Vertical MRO.

Episode 226 - Natural Disaster Responses: A Coast Guard Perspective with Scott Kellerman Part I Jan 20, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.

Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group, BLR Aerospace, and Garmin.

Episode 225 - Breaking In: A Conversation on How to Get into Public Safety Aviation Jan 16, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.
We get a ton of questions from people asking how they can break into the public safety aviation career field, so in this episode, we’re thrilled to explore the diverse pathways into public safety aviation careers like airborne law enforcement, aerial firefighting, airborne search-and-rescue technicians, and emergency medical services.
Join Rob Munday, Stef Maier, Mike Calhoun, and Dave Callen, who share valuable insights on breaking into the public safety aviation community. We’ll uncover the essential skills, personal attributes, and relevant experiences that can set you apart in these high-stakes fields.
From the significance of training and volunteering to the impact of mentorship and networking, this conversation offers a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities that await aspiring public safety aviators. Whether you’re exploring a new career path or looking to deepen your understanding of these critical roles, you won’t want to miss this enlightening episode of Hangar Z!
Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Robinson Helicopters and SHOTOVER.

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