Published by Jon Gray
A podcast where we explore the personnel and equipment behind the missions in Public Safety Aviation.
Listen on Apple PodcastsWelcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Valor Plus . On today's episode, we're honored to welcome Deputy Jonathan Lazada and Deputy Chase Gomez of the Indian River County Sheriff's Office Aviation Unit. Jonathan and Chase are the recipients of the Airborne Public Safety Association's Aircrew of the Year Award, as well as the FLIR Vision Award in the Life Saving category, recognizing their extraordinary efforts during a search that ultimately saved three lives. What began as the search for a downed aircraft several miles offshore quickly became a race against time. Operating within the limitations of their aircraft and mission equipment, they relied on disciplined Crew Resource Management, sound decision-making, and an unwavering commitment to the mission. Their persistence paid off when they located three survivors floating in the ocean and directed U.S. Coast Guard rescue assets to their position, leading to a successful rescue. In this conversation, we take a deep dive into every aspect of the mission. Jonathan and Chase walk us through the initial response, the challenges of searching over open water, the limitations of their airframe for this type of operation, and the critical decisions they made while balancing mission success with flight safety. We also discuss the importance of effective Crew Resource Management, maintaining situational awareness under pressure, staying determined when the odds seem stacked against you, and how teamwork became the defining factor in a successful outcome. One of the most rewarding moments came after the rescue, when Jonathan and Chase had the opportunity to meet all three survivors back at the hangar—a powerful reminder of why public safety aviation professionals do what they do. This is an incredible story of professionalism, perseverance, and teamwork under the most demanding conditions. We know you're going to enjoy this conversation. Watch the 2026 FLIR Vision Awards | Life Saver Award with Jonathan and Chase at this link . Thank you to our sponsors CENTUM , MD Helicopters and Quantum Helicopters .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Valor Plus . In this episode we are heading to Modesto, California, to hear how a brand-new air support unit was built from the ground up, and how it’s already changing the way the department fights crime, protects officers, and serves the community. Lt Mike Hicks and Lt Kalani Souza were both involved from the opening decision to start an air unit. They share the process and the many challenges involved within funding, airframe choice, acquiring the airframe, and then finding to right crews members. They also discuss the immediate benefits of air support in supporting patrol operations including a dramatic reduction in crime. Thank you to our sponsors BLR Aerospace , Dallas Avionics and Robinson Helicopter .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Valor Plus . In this episode we are heading to Modesto, California, to hear how a brand-new air support unit was built from the ground up, and how it’s already changing the way the department fights crime, protects officers, and serves the community. Lt Mike Hicks and Lt Kalani Souza were both involved from the opening decision to start an air unit. They share the process and the many challenges involved within funding, airframe choice, acquiring the airframe, and then finding to right crews members. They also discuss the immediate benefits of air support in supporting patrol operations including a dramatic reduction in crime. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus , Onboard Systems & Hoist & Winch and Spectrolab .
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Valor Plus . In this special two-part series, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are joined by Clay Lacey of the Texas Department of Public Safety and Harald Brink of the Dutch National Police to explore the 25-plus-year legacy of Jack Schonely’s tactical training. From individual officer safety to agency-wide operations, Jack’s framework for apprehending fleeing suspects has become a global standard for pilots, tactical flight officers, and K-9 handlers alike. In this episode, the group reflects on the leadership and shared experiences that have shaped law enforcement tactics across the U.S. and Europe. Harald provides a global perspective and previews his upcoming course on locating missing persons, while Clay shares hard-earned insights on the humility required to mentor the next generation. The conversation also explores what it takes to become an effective instructor, focusing on authenticity over ego. Finally, the group looks ahead to the ECHO 2026 Public Safety Aviation Conference in Philadelphia. If you’re committed to tactical training, instructor development, and the future of public safety aviation, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Thank you to our sponsors Dallas Avionics , Metro Aviation and SHOTOVER .
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Valor Plus . In this special two-part series, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are joined by Clay Lacey of the Texas Department of Public Safety and Harald Brink of the Dutch National Police to explore the 25-plus-year legacy of Jack Schonely’s tactical training. From individual officer safety to agency-wide operations, Jack’s framework for apprehending fleeing suspects has become a global standard for pilots, tactical flight officers, and K-9 handlers alike. In this episode, the group reflects on the leadership and shared experiences that have shaped law enforcement tactics across the U.S. and Europe. Harald provides a global perspective and previews his upcoming course on locating missing persons, while Clay shares hard-earned insights on the humility required to mentor the next generation. The conversation also explores what it takes to become an effective instructor, focusing on authenticity over ego. Finally, the group looks ahead to the ECHO 2026 Public Safety Aviation Conference in Philadelphia. If you’re committed to tactical training, instructor development, and the future of public safety aviation, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus , CNC Technologies and Precision Aviation Group .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Valor Plus . On today's episode, we're taking you to California's Central Valley as we visit the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office Air Support Unit. Joining us are Deputy AJ Nikkel and Deputy Tyler Liburdi, who both serve as pilots and tactical flight officers. We'll explore the fascinating evolution of their aviation unit—from its beginnings as a volunteer organization to the professional operation it is today. We also discuss long-line rescue operations, the training and proficiency required to perform these demanding missions, and the unit's first successful real-world water rescue. Plus, we talk about the importance of providing support from above and the value of working seamlessly with neighboring aviation units. We hope you enjoy the conversation. Thank you to our sponsors CNC Technologies , Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch and Wysong Enterprises .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Valor Plus . On today's episode, we're taking you to California's Central Valley as we visit the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office Air Support Unit. Joining us are Deputy AJ Nikkel and Deputy Tyler Liburdi, who both serve as pilots and tactical flight officers. We'll explore the fascinating evolution of their aviation unit—from its beginnings as a volunteer organization to the professional operation it is today. We also discuss long-line rescue operations, the training and proficiency required to perform these demanding missions, and the unit's first successful real-world water rescue. Plus, we talk about the importance of providing support from above and the value of working seamlessly with neighboring aviation units. We hope you enjoy the conversation. Thank you to our sponsors Bell , Precision Aviation Group and Spectrolab .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Valor Plus . Today's episode is a special collaboration with our friends from the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, and we're tackling a topic that impacts every one of us in aviation — fatigue. Joining us for this outstanding panel discussion are the hosts of the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider. We are also honored to welcome a highly respected aviator with decades of experience, former HEMS pilot Woody McClendon. Fatigue is truly the danger you can't see. Unlike weather, mechanical issues, or other operational hazards, fatigue can quietly affect our judgment, decision-making, situational awareness, and overall performance long before we recognize its impact. Whether you're a pilot, TFO, crew member, mechanic, dispatcher, or supervisor, fatigue affects all of us. And in public safety aviation, the demands of shift work can make managing fatigue an even greater challenge. The reality is that fatigue is not a possibility — it is an inevitability. The question is not if fatigue will contribute to an incident or accident in public safety aviation, but when. That is why open and honest conversations like this one are so important. In this episode, we'll discuss safety initiatives designed to mitigate fatigue, the role of flight risk assessment tools, crew readiness, organizational responsibility, and personal accountability. Most importantly, our panel shares real-world experiences and lessons learned from careers spent operating in demanding environments where fatigue was often a constant factor. This is a candid, informative, and thought-provoking discussion that every aviation professional should hear. So settle in and join us as we explore one of the most significant — and often overlooked — threats to aviation safety. This is the Hangar Z Podcast in collaboration with the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, and the conversation starts right now. Read the related article by Tania Glenn - Sleep Under Stress in the Spring 2026 issue of Valor Plus. Thank you to our sponsors Metro Aviation , Robinson Helicopter and SHOTOVER Systems .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Valor Plus . Today's episode is a special collaboration with our friends from the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, and we're tackling a topic that impacts every one of us in aviation — fatigue. Joining us for this outstanding panel discussion are the hosts of the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider. We are also honored to welcome a highly respected aviator with decades of experience, former HEMS pilot Woody McClendon. Fatigue is truly the danger you can't see. Unlike weather, mechanical issues, or other operational hazards, fatigue can quietly affect our judgment, decision-making, situational awareness, and overall performance long before we recognize its impact. Whether you're a pilot, TFO, crew member, mechanic, dispatcher, or supervisor, fatigue affects all of us. And in public safety aviation, the demands of shift work can make managing fatigue an even greater challenge. The reality is that fatigue is not a possibility — it is an inevitability. The question is not if fatigue will contribute to an incident or accident in public safety aviation, but when. That is why open and honest conversations like this one are so important. In this episode, we'll discuss safety initiatives designed to mitigate fatigue, the role of flight risk assessment tools, crew readiness, organizational responsibility, and personal accountability. Most importantly, our panel shares real-world experiences and lessons learned from careers spent operating in demanding environments where fatigue was often a constant factor. This is a candid, informative, and thought-provoking discussion that every aviation professional should hear. So settle in and join us as we explore one of the most significant — and often overlooked — threats to aviation safety. This is the Hangar Z Podcast in collaboration with the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, and the conversation starts right now. Read the related article by Tania Glenn - Sleep Under Stress in the Spring 2026 issue of Valor Plus. Thank you to our sponsors Bell , BLR Aerospace and Wysong Enterprises .
Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS in partnership with Valor Plus . On today’s episode, we’re pleased to welcome the two candidates for the Airborne Public Safety Association’s Northeast Regional Director position. Joining us are Eric Bourn of the South Berwick Police Department and Lt. Jason Baxley of the Delaware State Police. This special episode provides an opportunity for APSA members to hear directly from the candidates as they introduce themselves, discuss their backgrounds and experience, and answer three questions that are important to the future of public safety aviation and the association they hope to serve. The Hangar Z Podcast is honored to partner with APSA in providing a platform for these candidates to share their perspectives with the membership ahead of the election. Our goal is to give voters an opportunity to learn more about each candidate and make an informed decision. For more information about the Airborne Public Safety Association, visit publicsafetyaviation.org . Thank you for joining us, and now let’s meet the candidates for APSA Northeast Regional Director. Thank you to our sponsors Spectrolab , Summit Aviation and Robinson Helicopter .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus . In this comprehensive two-part conversation, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are joined by Tamrin Olden, founder of TOC Public Relations, to discuss why social media has become a mission-critical tool for modern public safety. Moving beyond the "ancillary duty" mindset, Tamrin explains how a strategic digital presence is the foundation for community trust, transparency, and successful recruitment. Throughout this episode, we dive deep into the friction between traditional law enforcement leadership and the fast-paced digital world, exploring how to overcome the "paralysis by analysis" that often keeps agencies silent. Tamrin breaks down the difference between "vanity metrics" (like viral dance videos) and "value-driven content" that authentically showcases the expertise and humanity of a department. Key topics discussed in this episode include: The Strategy of Storytelling: Why agencies like Phoenix PD and Irvine PD succeed by focusing on "Human-Centered Storytelling" rather than just posed award photos. Aviation and Specialized Units: Tactical advice for air units on using social media to justify budgets, educate the public on capabilities, and provide a "peek behind the curtain" through Tech Tuesdays. Overcoming Leadership Hurdles: How to "supervise up" and package social media proposals that address administrative fears regarding negative comments and legal liability. Crisis Communications: Why the phrase, “no comment,” is a strategy for failure. We discuss lessons learned from major incidents like Ferguson and Uvalde, and the importance of releasing facts on your own terms to control the narrative. The Digital Recruitment War: Why your agency’s "digital fingerprint" is the first thing a potential recruit looks at, and how to use social media for attracting new talent and retaining current staff. Whether you are a social media manager, a unit leader, or a command staff member, this episode provides a tactical "starter pack" for building a professional, effective, and transparent communication strategy. Check out TOC Public Relations at www.tocpublicrelations.com/ Thank you to our sponsors Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch , Metro Aviation and Trakka Systems .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus . In this comprehensive two-part conversation, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are joined by Tamrin Olden, founder of TOC Public Relations, to discuss why social media has become a mission-critical tool for modern public safety. Moving beyond the "ancillary duty" mindset, Tamrin explains how a strategic digital presence is the foundation for community trust, transparency, and successful recruitment. Throughout this episode, we dive deep into the friction between traditional law enforcement leadership and the fast-paced digital world, exploring how to overcome the "paralysis by analysis" that often keeps agencies silent. Tamrin breaks down the difference between "vanity metrics" (like viral dance videos) and "value-driven content" that authentically showcases the expertise and humanity of a department. Key topics discussed in this episode include: The Strategy of Storytelling: Why agencies like Phoenix PD and Irvine PD succeed by focusing on "Human-Centered Storytelling" rather than just posed award photos. Aviation and Specialized Units: Tactical advice for air units on using social media to justify budgets, educate the public on capabilities, and provide a "peek behind the curtain" through Tech Tuesdays. Overcoming Leadership Hurdles: How to "supervise up" and package social media proposals that address administrative fears regarding negative comments and legal liability. Crisis Communications: Why the phrase, “no comment,” is a strategy for failure. We discuss lessons learned from major incidents like Ferguson and Uvalde, and the importance of releasing facts on your own terms to control the narrative. The Digital Recruitment War: Why your agency’s "digital fingerprint" is the first thing a potential recruit looks at, and how to use social media for attracting new talent and retaining current staff. Whether you are a social media manager, a unit leader, or a command staff member, this episode provides a tactical "starter pack" for building a professional, effective, and transparent communication strategy. Check out TOC Public Relations at www.tocpublicrelations.com/ Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group , Quantum Helicopters and SHOTOVER .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus . Our guest is retired Lieutenant Glenn Daley of the New York City Police Department Aviation Unit. Glenn’s career in airborne law enforcement spans decades of service, leadership, instruction, and experience, that has taken him around the world. This conversation is powerful, emotional, educational, and, without question, one of the most important discussions we have had on this podcast. This series begins on Sept. 11, 2001, at 8:46 a.m., the moment American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Glenn takes us back to that horrific morning and provides a firsthand account of the response by NYPD Aviation assets during one of the darkest days in American history. He shares not only the operational response, but also his personal experiences and how that day forever changed him both professionally and personally. Throughout this series, we walk through Glenn’s remarkable NYPD career, including his time assigned to the Special Enforcement Unit, and discuss the transition into flying and instructing after retirement from the department. Glenn’s passion for aviation safety and training is evident throughout every episode. One of the most impactful parts of this conversation is our deep dive into IIMC (inadvertent flight into instrument meteorological conditions). Glenn shares his extensive knowledge and experience on what pilots and crews must do to prevent and survive these situations. We discuss go and no-go decision making, simulator training, proficiency versus currency, instrument ratings, crew coordination, and the mindset required to avoid tragedy. These lessons are real-world, practical, and potentially lifesaving. Episodes like this truly have the power to save lives someday, and we are incredibly fortunate that Glenn was willing to share his experiences, knowledge, and perspective with all our listeners. This is a conversation you will not forget. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus , Dallas Avionics and Spectrolab .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus . Our guest is retired Lieutenant Glenn Daley of the New York City Police Department Aviation Unit. Glenn’s career in airborne law enforcement spans decades of service, leadership, instruction, and experience, that has taken him around the world. This conversation is powerful, emotional, educational, and, without question, one of the most important discussions we have had on this podcast. This series begins on Sept. 11, 2001, at 8:46 a.m., the moment American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Glenn takes us back to that horrific morning and provides a firsthand account of the response by NYPD Aviation assets during one of the darkest days in American history. He shares not only the operational response, but also his personal experiences and how that day forever changed him both professionally and personally. Throughout this series, we walk through Glenn’s remarkable NYPD career, including his time assigned to the Special Enforcement Unit, and discuss the transition into flying and instructing after retirement from the department. Glenn’s passion for aviation safety and training is evident throughout every episode. One of the most impactful parts of this conversation is our deep dive into IIMC (inadvertent flight into instrument meteorological conditions). Glenn shares his extensive knowledge and experience on what pilots and crews must do to prevent and survive these situations. We discuss go and no-go decision making, simulator training, proficiency versus currency, instrument ratings, crew coordination, and the mindset required to avoid tragedy. These lessons are real-world, practical, and potentially lifesaving. Episodes like this truly have the power to save lives someday, and we are incredibly fortunate that Glenn was willing to share his experiences, knowledge, and perspective with all our listeners. This is a conversation you will not forget. Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group , Robinson Helicopter and SHOTOVER .
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus . Our guest is retired Lieutenant Glenn Daley of the New York City Police Department Aviation Unit. Glenn’s career in airborne law enforcement spans decades of service, leadership, instruction, and experience, that has taken him around the world. This conversation is powerful, emotional, educational, and, without question, one of the most important discussions we have had on this podcast. This series begins on Sept. 11, 2001, at 8:46 a.m., the moment American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Glenn takes us back to that horrific morning and provides a firsthand account of the response by NYPD Aviation assets during one of the darkest days in American history. He shares not only the operational response, but also his personal experiences and how that day forever changed him both professionally and personally. Throughout this series, we walk through Glenn’s remarkable NYPD career, including his time assigned to the Special Enforcement Unit, and discuss the transition into flying and instructing after retirement from the department. Glenn’s passion for aviation safety and training is evident throughout every episode. One of the most impactful parts of this conversation is our deep dive into IIMC (inadvertent flight into instrument meteorological conditions). Glenn shares his extensive knowledge and experience on what pilots and crews must do to prevent and survive these situations. We discuss go and no-go decision making, simulator training, proficiency versus currency, instrument ratings, crew coordination, and the mindset required to avoid tragedy. These lessons are real-world, practical, and potentially lifesaving. Episodes like this truly have the power to save lives someday, and we are incredibly fortunate that Glenn was willing to share his experiences, knowledge, and perspective with all our listeners. This is a conversation you will not forget. Thank you to our sponsors CNC Technologies , Metro Aviation and Trakka Systems .
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus . This episode was recorded live from the floor of VAI Verticon 2026 in Atlanta at the Vertical Plus booth. In this episode we catch up with two returning guests and highly respected rescue and aviation professionals, retired Las Vegas Metro officer and owner of SR3 Rescue Concepts, Dave Callen, along with longtime law enforcement pilot and SR3 instructor, Tony Weber. This was a rapid-fire conversation in the middle of a packed convention floor, but that energy made for an outstanding discussion centered around one critical topic — precision training for real-world rescue missions. Dave and Tony share their perspectives on the importance of outside training, the impact of the Hoist Users Conference, and why realistic, mission-focused preparation can make the difference when lives are on the line. We also discuss a quote that resonates deeply throughout aviation and law enforcement: “The absence of an accident does not imply the presence of safety.” It’s a mindset that challenges organizations and operators to constantly evaluate training, proficiency, and readiness long before something goes wrong. As always, there are plenty of laughs mixed in with the serious conversation, and we’re incredibly grateful to have two trusted subject matter experts join us again to talk about the evolution of life-saving rescue training. For more information on SR3 Rescue Concepts, visit SR3rescue.com Thank you to all our sponsors Onboard Systems Hoist and Winch , Summit Aviation and Quantum Helicopters .
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus . This three-part series comes to you from the hangar at Broward Sheriff's Office as part of the 2026 Blades of Valor Tour, where we had the opportunity to interview Sgt Paul Seda and pilot Carl Spear. 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. Thank you to our 2026 Blades of Valor Tour sponsor, Switlik Survival Products, for making this tour 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 Massif provides the flight suits that support our crew in the field. This Hangar Z episode, recorded on location at the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) in Fort Lauderdale, marks the second stop of the 2026 Blades of Valor Tour. The episode dives deep into the operational excellence of the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Sgt Seda and Officer Spear explain the "hunt bad guys" philosophy that drives their mission and the transition from a multi-mission medevac/LEO hybrid to a dedicated, high-tempo law enforcement unit. The episode concludes with a tribute to Spear, who reflects on a 39-year law enforcement career. The crew discusses the "culture of consistency" and the passion required to sustain a long, successful career in the cockpit. This stop on the Blades of Valor tour highlights a unit built on trust, transparency, and a relentless commitment to supporting the men and women on the ground. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus , CNC Technologies and Dallas Avionics .
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus . This three-part series comes to you from the hangar at Broward Sheriff's Office as part of the 2026 Blades of Valor Tour, where we had the opportunity to interview Sgt Paul Seda and pilot Carl Spear. 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. Thank you to our 2026 Blades of Valor Tour sponsor, Switlik Survival Products, for making this tour 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 Massif provides the flight suits that support our crew in the field. This Hangar Z episode, recorded on location at the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) in Fort Lauderdale, marks the second stop of the 2026 Blades of Valor Tour. The episode dives deep into the operational excellence of the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Sgt Seda and Officer Spear explain the "hunt bad guys" philosophy that drives their mission and the transition from a multi-mission medevac/LEO hybrid to a dedicated, high-tempo law enforcement unit. The episode concludes with a tribute to Spear, who reflects on a 39-year law enforcement career. The crew discusses the "culture of consistency" and the passion required to sustain a long, successful career in the cockpit. This stop on the Blades of Valor tour highlights a unit built on trust, transparency, and a relentless commitment to supporting the men and women on the ground. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus , CNC Technologies and SHOTOVER .
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus . This three-part series comes to you from the hangar at Broward Sheriff's Office as part of the 2026 Blades of Valor Tour, where we had the opportunity to interview Sgt Paul Seda and pilot Carl Spear. 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. Thank you to our 2026 Blades of Valor Tour sponsor, Switlik Survival Products, for making this tour 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 Massif provides the flight suits that support our crew in the field. This Hangar Z episode, recorded on location at the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) in Fort Lauderdale, marks the second stop of the 2026 Blades of Valor Tour. The episode dives deep into the operational excellence of the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Sgt Seda and Officer Spear explain the "hunt bad guys" philosophy that drives their mission and the transition from a multi-mission medevac/LEO hybrid to a dedicated, high-tempo law enforcement unit. The episode concludes with a tribute to Spear, who reflects on a 39-year law enforcement career. The crew discusses the "culture of consistency" and the passion required to sustain a long, successful career in the cockpit. This stop on the Blades of Valor tour highlights a unit built on trust, transparency, and a relentless commitment to supporting the men and women on the ground. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus , Metro Aviation and Precision Aviation Group .
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus . In this two-part series of The Hangar Z Podcast, host Jon Gray is joined by OG co-host Jeff Ratkovich and industry veteran Terry Miyauchi. The conversation takes us on a deep dive into the evolving landscape of public safety aviation. Fresh off his transition from Bell to launching his own public-safety-focused consultancy, Terry helps unpack the global trends, leadership philosophies, and safety data shaping the industry in 2026. The conversation begins with Terry’s passion for leadership development. He explains why public safety aviation consistently produces world-class technicians but often struggles to produce equally strong leaders. Terry introduces the idea that “ego is the killer of excellence” and makes the case that a genuine “love of people” is the most critical trait for any unit commander. From there, they analyze current global fleet data, highlighting the stark imbalance in rotorcraft assets between North America/Europe and the rest of the world—and what that means for life-saving capability and public safety outcomes. The series then shifts into the practical realities of staffing and funding. Terry explores the growing trend toward “turnkey” and “civilianized” models, where agencies partner with private operators to overcome the crushing costs of sworn retirement systems, chronic personnel shortages, and aging aircraft. Along the way, we examine how political savviness, not just operational need, often determines whether new units get launched or existing fleets get modernized. Whether you’re a unit manager fighting for fleet upgrades, a pilot wrestling with target fixation and weather pressures, a tactical flight officer (TFO) trying to raise safety and standards, or an agency exploring how to launch a new program, this two-part series delivers a candid masterclass in the business, politics, and human psychology of keeping public safety aviation missions safe, sustainable, and effective. Thank you to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing , Bell and SHOTOVER .
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