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Welcome to The Phantom Fuel Podcast, your connection to the Nebraska Air National Guard like never before. This podcast was born out of listening to our Airmen and responding to...
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Welcome to The Phantom Fuel Podcast, your connection to the Nebraska Air National Guard like never before. This podcast was born out of listening to our Airmen and responding to their top priorities: better communication and a stronger sense of belonging. With The Phantom Fuel Podcast, we aim to educate, inform, entertain, and connect our community in ways we’ve never tried before. From insightful interviews and inspiring stories to important updates and practical tips, each episode is crafted with you in mind. Your feedback is essential in shaping this podcast - For all, made by Airmen!
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Episodes & Posts
Episodes
Posts
4 JUN 2026 · 🎧 Episode SummaryThis month, the Phantom Fuel Podcast enters a whole new chapter. As our host SMSgt Mandy Denhardt and producer RJ prepare for their upcoming retirements, we are officially passing the torch to the next generation of leadership. In this premiere, we sit down with our incoming producer to discuss the future vision of the show. Plus, we cover an unprecedented medical readiness mission in Tanzania, a rapid joint-force pivot to suppress the Pressey Park wildfire, and a look back at an elite achievement on the national stage.As Mandy and RJ are getting their retirement paperwork in order, the podcast isn't missing a beat. Today, Mandy welcomes Senior Airman Crayton Noe to the studio as the incoming producer and new lead voice of the official Nebraska National Guard podcast. Crayton discusses his background as a 10-year active-duty veteran, his experience as a base DJ, and his vision for shorter, more frequent content drops.
- Medical Diplomacy in East Africa: Lt. Col. Angela Ling of the 155th Medical Group led a historic joint-force medical exercise during Justified Accord 26 in Dar es Salaam. Sourcing specialized capabilities across the Army and Air National Guard to meet specific Tanzanian requests, the mission also debuted cloud-based medical readiness tracking app MCART 2.0 in Africa for the first time.
- Real-World Wildfire PIVOT: While out west for a planned field training exercise, aviation crews were redirected under state active-duty orders to fight the Pressey Park Fire. Alongside MSgt John Williams and the 155th ARW Fire Department, two UH-60 Black Hawks dropped over 54,000 gallons of water to combat the 8,000-acre blaze.
- Ashland Community Partnership: Major General Craig Strong and Mayor Jim Anderson formalized a new community partnership charter in Ashland. This ongoing program enhances emergency response cooperation and military families' support, linking back to a heritage that began with a local training camp in 1908.
- Best Squad Honors: Congratulations to Nebraska’s own Specialist Alexander Thomson, who was officially recognized as an elite member of the National Guard's nationwide Best Squad.
- Wing and 170th Updates:
- The Chiefs Council brought together old friends and shared current mission updates at the annual Retiree Breakfast at Lincoln air base.
- Shaking off the boneyard dust: Cheers to MSgt Neil Churchill, whose decade-long persistence finally secured an F-108 Engine trainer for the 170th Group.
- Congratulations to SSgt Kinslow on earning the 55th ISS Airman of the Quarter.
When the summer mercury hits 90°F and above, don't wait until you're thirsty to start hydrating. Mandy covers essential hot-weather protocols, tick checks after field exercises, and the golden rule: have a backup plan for your late summer weekend trips.Crayton is ready to take the mic, and the best way to support the incoming team is to interact with the channel!
- Feedback & Topic Ideas: Got a story from your shop or want to volunteer to co-host? Reach out via our standard form.👉 https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6
- Coffee Bar Name Submissions: Keep submitting your base coffee shop name ideas! The link to the submission form can be found right... https://forms.gle/jiikL7tzGEZJR97v8
- Follow & Review: Rate us 5 stars on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and toggle your notifications so you never miss a monthly drop.
- Air Force Connect Mobile App: Stream any episode on your commute! Add the Air Force Connect app to your phone, favorite the 155th Air Refueling Wing, and listen seamlessly.
Until next time — take care, stay safe, stay connected, and keep fueling the mission!
7 MAY 2026 · 🎧 Episode SummaryMay is here, and the Nebraska National Guard has been operating at maximum capacity. Fill-in host SMSgt Mandy Denhardt returns to recap a historic month of domestic responses and global missions. From fighting massive wildfires in the Sandhills to formalizing international partnerships in East Africa, we cover what it means to be "Always Ready". Plus, we sit down with the masterminds behind the new drill-weekend coffee shop to talk morale, mentorship, and why we desperately need your help naming the new space.SMSgt Mandy Denhardt is holding down the fort, but we are still looking for the permanent voice of the Phantom Fuel Podcast. If you are ready to take the mic, reach out to your First Sergeant or Innovation Chief Nelson today.
- Historic Wildfire Response: Nebraska faced devastating wildfires in March, with the Morrill and Cottonwood fires scorching over 820,000 acres. We highlight the 155th ARW and Army Guard members who joined emergency response crews for grueling mop-up operations.
- Global Deployments & Family Support: While our KC-135s deploy worldwide, we honor the families holding down the home front. Need support? Contact Military & Family Readiness Manager Lindsey Kuschel at 402-309-1588 or utilize Military OneSource.
- The Coffee Shop Interview: Guest interviewer MSgt Darren Davlin sits down with MSgt Tony Elder and MSgt Caitlin Grossrhode. They discuss the launch of the recently opened Wing Headquarters coffee bar (open 0630-0830 on drill weekends), the importance of "collision spaces" for networking, and how goodwill donations made it happen.
- Guard Highlights & News:
- Recruiting: Over 450 students attended the 155th's massive Open Hangar event, getting hands-on with 45 career fields.
- Best Warrior Competition: Congratulations to Enlisted winner Spc. Logan Kelly and NCO winner SSgt Austin Roach, who will represent Nebraska at Regionals.
- State Partnership Program: Maj Gen Strong traveled to Dar Es Salaam to officially welcome Tanzania as our newest State Partner.
- 170th Group Wins: Celebrating the deployed crew that won the prestigious Palm Trophy, and honoring the MXSS Maintenance Professionals of the Year.
- Safety & Morale: A friendly summer safety reminder that flip-flops are not approved lawn-mowing PPE, plus details on the upcoming JFHQ Chalk Art Contest starting May 19th.
☕ Name the Coffee Bar!The Top 3 Council brought the coffee, but we need you to bring the name. Submit your best, most creative names for the new shop using the link below.
- https://forms.gle/jiikL7tzGEZJR97v8
🫵 Submit Feedback or Volunteer to HostWant to sit in the host's chair? Have an idea for a future episode?
- https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6
Your interaction is the fuel that keeps this podcast running and elevates the voices of the Nebraska National Guard.
- Rate & Review: If you are listening on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, please leave a 5-star rating and drop a review.
- Never Miss an Episode: Hit the bell icon to turn on alerts for our drops on the first Thursday of every month.
- Air Force Connect App: Stream the podcast on the go! Open the AF Connect app, favorite the 155th Wing, and listen directly from your phone.
Until next time — take care, stay safe, stay connected, and keep fueling the mission.🎙️ The Search Continues: We Need a Permanent Host!🚀 In This Episode🔗 Mentioned in this Episode📢 Help Us Fuel the Mission
2 APR 2026 · Release Date: April 2026Season: 2 | Episode: 15We are back! After a brief pause in March, the Phantom Fuel Podcast returns with a massive update. In this episode, we address the recent silence, celebrate the retirement and transition of our founding producer, RJ, and introduce our fill-in host, SMSgt Mandy Denhardt. We also bring you a powerhouse interview with retired Major General Rick Evans, and catch you up on a busy month of deployments, inspections, and historic milestones across the Nebraska National Guard.A special welcome to SMSgt Mandy Denhardt, who steps up to the mic to guide us through this transition period. As RJ prepares for his well-deserved retirement, we are officially searching for the next voice and producer of the Phantom Fuel Podcast. Could it be you?
- Strategic Perspectives: Chief Eddie sits down with retired Major General Rick Evans, current Executive Director at the National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI), to discuss his Guard history and the vital relationship between Nebraska and USSTRATCOM.
- The March Recap: We missed a month, but the mission didn't stop. We cover the Army Guard's deployment to Washington D.C., the inaugural Warrant Officer Hall of Fame class, and the 155th Wing's highly successful Combat Readiness Inspection (CRI).
- Honoring Excellence: Highlighting the 170th Group's SrA Kinslow (Outstanding Airman of the Year), the 43rd Army Band's honor band mentorship, and an Elm Creek civilian employer receiving the ESGR Patriot Award.
- Spring Safety Brief: April means motorcycles are back on the road and patio season is open. Have a plan, watch your blind spots, and make the smart call.
🎙️ Step Up to the Mic: We Need a New Host!Are you the next voice of the Nebraska Air National Guard? We are looking for a new host and producer to take over the Phantom Fuel Podcast.
- Reach out to your First Sergeant or the A1 staff of Chief Nelson (Innovation Director) to throw your name in the hat.
🏕️ Summer Youth Camps (Grades K-8)The Nebraska Guard has partnered with Bright Lights and 4-H to offer discounted summer activities for Guard families. Supplies are limited!
- Contact Gabrielle Onate at 402-309-7338 or scan the QR codes on flyers around base.
🥂 Emerald Social UpdateThe Emerald Social has been rescheduled, not canceled! Refunds are being processed for current ticketholders, and the team is working to make the new date even better. Stay tuned for details.Whether you want to be the next host, have a story we need to cover, or just want to leave some feedback for Mandy and RJ, we want to hear from you!👇 Click the link below to submit feedback or volunteer:https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6
- Review us on Spotify: Every comment helps boost the podcast!
- Share the Show: Help us elevate the voice of the Nebraska National Guard by sharing this episode with a friend or fellow Airman.
Until next time — take care, stay safe, stay connected, and keep fueling the mission.
5 FEB 2026 · Release Date: February 5, 2026Season: 2 | Episode: 14February is a short month, but the mission list is long. As the 155th gears up for the Combat Readiness Inspection (CRI), we take a step back to look at the big picture of Nebraska leadership. From the freeze-thaw cycle on the flight line to the strategic partnerships at USSTRATCOM, this episode covers the full spectrum of "Always Ready."We are bringing the "Diamond" to the studio. TSgt Joseph, a newly appointed First Sergeant for Security Forces, sits down with RJ to offer a leadership perspective on inspection stress, Valentine's Day budgeting, and keeping Airmen safe.
- The View from the Top: Chief Eddy sits down with Col Mueller, Deputy Wing Commander, to discuss his career path, what a Deputy actually does, and the vital link between the Guard, USSTRATCOM, and our State Partners.
- 171 Years Strong: We missed a birthday! A look back at the Nebraska National Guard’s origins in 1854 and the legacy we carry today.
- Recruiting Wins: A huge shoutout to the Nebraska Recruiting Team for being coined after a record-breaking year of accessions in 2025.
- Safety Brief: Surviving the February freeze-thaw, driving on ice, and financial advice for Valentine's Day (don't buy that ring at 28% APR!).
- Always Ready: A recap of the End of Year video from the Command Team.
☕ Vote for the Coffee Bar Name!The submissions are in, and now it’s time to decide. Help us name the new coffee bar by casting your vote below.
- https://forms.gle/jiikL7tzGEZJR97v8
🥂 Emerald Social (March Drill)LAST CALL: This is your final chance to register. Do not miss the dinner, awards, and camaraderie.
- Scan the QR code on the flyers around base or check your email to reserve your hotel immediately.
🫵 Join the TeamOur recruiters broke records last year because people want to be part of this mission.
- Interested in joining the Nebraska Air National Guard? Contact a local recruiter today or visit the Nebraska Guard Website.
Did you like the First Sergeant perspective? Have a question for leadership? Want to volunteer as a co-host?👇 Click the link below to submit feedback or volunteer:https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6
- Review us on Spotify: Every comment helps boost the Nebraska voices!
- Share the Show: Help us boost the voice of the Nebraska National Guard by sharing this episode with a friend.
Until next time — take care, stay safe, stay connected, and keep fueling the mission.
1 JAN 2026 · 🎧 Episode SummaryWe are back for Season 2! In this premiere episode, we kick off 2026 with a refreshed format and a special focus on "Future You." Whether you are one year in or twenty years deep, financial readiness is mission-critical. We break down why retirement planning shouldn't wait and how the Blended Retirement System (BRS) affects you. Plus, we honor the end of an era for Nebraska’s Airborne, share a moving story from the 155th AFE, and look ahead to upcoming events.For the first time, we welcome a listener-turned-co-host to the mic! SSgt Lauren Gonzalez from the FSS Personnel Flight joins RJ to share her story, offer her perspective on the new year, and prove that your feedback truly shapes this show.
- The Season 2 Launch: A new look, a tighter format, and what to expect in 2026.
- Retirement Readiness w/ Cara Lokin: Why starting your financial planning now is the ultimate cheat code for a stress-free career.
- Mission Spotlight: The 155th AFE team steps up for an unexpected and heavy DPAA mission, bringing closure to families of WWII service members.
- End of an Era: The 2-134th Infantry (Airborne) conducts their final jumps, closing a 40-year chapter of Nebraska history.
- Community & Morale: Recapping the 170th’s Gatsby Holiday Party and a look ahead to the 155th Wing Holiday Party in March.
☕ Name the New Coffee Bar!We need your creativity. The new coffee bar needs a name, and we want you to choose it.
- (Link coming soon)
📅 155th Wing Holiday Party (March)Don't wait—get your tickets for the "March Madness" holiday celebration.
- Check the flyers around base for the QR code or see your First Sergeant.
Did you like the new format? Have a story we missed? Want to join us as a guest host like SSgt Gonzalez?👇 Click the link below to submit feedback or volunteer:https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6
- Review us on Spotify: Every comment is an entry into our future giveaways!
- Share the Show: Help us boost the voice of the Nebraska National Guard by sharing this episode with a friend.
Until next time — take care, stay safe, stay connected, and keep fueling the mission.
4 DEC 2025 · One Year Anniversary EpisodeCelebrate one year of Phantom Fuel. RJ sits down with Chief Hruby — the driving force behind the Spark Cell and the Innovation Team — to talk about how the podcast got started, innovation in the Guard, leadership, and the power of new ideas.
Then we rewind the year: highlights, hard lessons, big wins, and the moments that made Season 1 special.Throughout the year we had a fun lightning roundRJ runs the five lightning-round questions with all the years guests and we debut this fun section in this episode!!Catch up fast on what’s been happening across Nebraska and beyond:
- Turkey Trot 5K recap (November drill)
- New State Partnership Program announcement (Republic of the Marshall Islands)
- Training wins, community partnerships, and more
Quick, practical reminders for the season — travel smart, shop safely, check extension cords, keep real trees watered, and take time to breathe.Over the past months we gave everyone a chance to enter twice each month (one Spotify comment + one anonymous feedback form entry) for a shot at a $50 Amazon gift card. Because the November episode was delayed, we extended the window to include all entries through Nov 20.
We do not reveal the winner here in the show notes. Tune in to this episode to hear the name announced live — you’ve got to listen to find out if you won!
💬 Tell us what you think of the show🎙️ Suggest topics you want covered📣 Sign up to be a co-host or full-time hostSubmit ideas / join the show: https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6
15 NOV 2025 · Before we begin, a quick note:
This episode was recorded during the government shutdown, before we were notified that content releases were temporarily paused. Thank you for your patience—this episode was originally scheduled for the first Thursday of November.Because of the delay, the $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway has been extended for 10 days after today’s release. Enter by sharing the episode, leaving a comment, and submitting your feedback using the link below.In Episode 11, we lean into what November is all about—awareness, connection, and taking care of each other—while navigating a unique season for the military community.RJ opens the episode with important reminders about November observances, including American Diabetes Month, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, National Family Caregivers Month, and more, along with the upcoming holidays: Veterans Day and Thanksgiving.We also take a moment to acknowledge the ongoing government shutdown at the time of recording. Despite limited staffing and resources across bases, the message is clear: you are not alone. Key services like SARC, JAG, Mental Health, and leadership remain available for anyone needing support.Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s show:Senior Master Sergeant Eddy sits down with Col. Christopher Hesse, Commander of the 155th Air Refueling Wing. They discuss his path to leadership, the experiences that shaped him, and the strategic vision for the future of the 155th ARW.• The final airborne jumps of the Nebraska Army National Guard’s 2-134th Infantry (Airborne), marking the end of more than 40 years of airborne operations.
• Updates to the revamped Air Force Physical Fitness Test, including new expectations for the 2-mile run and scoring standards.• Turkey Trot 5K – Nov 15th (Drill Weekend), 1500
• Cookies & Crafts with Santa – Dec 6th, 1300–1500, JFHQ Atrium
• Congratulations to 155th LRS, winners of the 2025 Knucklebusters Volleyball Tournament! We’ll see everyone again in Sept 2026.For event updates, contact Cara Lokin.With Thanksgiving and the winter holidays approaching, we cover safe travel reminders, shopping awareness tips, and home safety considerations—especially for natural Christmas trees and holiday lights.There are only a few weeks left to enter the $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway before the winner is announced in our one-year anniversary episode on December 4th.💬 Tell us what you think of the show
🎙️ Share what topics you want us to cover
📣 Sign up to be a co-host or full-time host
✍️ Submit your entry here:
Feedback Form: https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6
2 OCT 2025 · This month, we’re shining a spotlight on the people and programs that keep the Nebraska Air National Guard strong—on and off duty.🎙️ Inside this episode:
- A conversation with Cara Lokin, Transition Specialist & Family Readiness volunteer, on how family support builds morale and resilience.
- Guard highlights from Alaska to Germany—Security Forces in rugged training, Civil Engineers sharpening their skills, and Nebraska EOD teams clearing over 2,000 pounds of ordnance.
- Celebrating Family Appreciation Day, community partnerships, and a heartfelt salute to Lt. Col. Randal Douglas on his fini-flight after 36 years of service.
- Special recognition for Chief Hruby, whose leadership and vision created the SPARK Cell and helped launch this very podcast. As she retires after nearly 22 years, we say thank you—and share news of her upcoming Innovation interview you won’t want to miss.
- October safety reminders for families, neighborhoods, and everyone celebrating Halloween.
💡 Don’t miss out! Every comment on Spotify or submission through our anonymous feedback form = an entry into our $50 Amazon gift card giveaway. Two chances to win each month until Nov. 15. Winner announced in December during our one-year anniversary episode.👉 Feedback form: https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6📧 Want more info on family events, classes, or career planning? Reach out to Cara Lokin directly at cloken.ctr@gapsi.com.Listen now and stay connected—because when families, communities, and service members come together, the mission is stronger than ever.Org Box email - (Coming Soon)
4 SEP 2025 · This month, host RJ is joined by co-host MSgt Select Mariah Heckman for a packed episode featuring:
☕ The grand opening of the 155th Coffee Bar
💡 A deep dive into the 10-Hour Innovation Challenge with Kathy Anderson & Scott Henderson hosted by Chief Hruby
✈️ Nebraska Guard highlights—from a heritage-painted KC-135 farewell to our growing partnership with Tanzania
📅 Upcoming Guard family events you don’t want to miss
⚠️ A look back at summer with an end-of-season safety check-in👉 PLUS – YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!
This is your second month that you can enter to win a $50 Amazon gift card with 2 chances to win each month.
But here’s the catch—you’ll need to LISTEN to Episode 9 to get the details on how to enter. (you can also go back to listen to Episode 8 for more chances)🎧 Tune in now, grab your coffee, and join the conversation:
📝 Leave a review on Spotify or other platforms and also use this link for feedback and... :https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6 remember - use this form for your 2nd chance to win.📢 Support the Show: ✔ Like, follow, and subscribe✔ Leave a Spotify comment or review✔ Share this episode with fellow Airmen, friends, and family✔ Want to co-host or share an event? Reach out via the feedback link above!Missed an Episode? We are available all over!! Use Spotify to rank and comment - It really helps elevate the voice of Nebraska!!#PhantomFuelPodcast #NebraskaAirNationalGuard #Innovation #MilitaryPodcast #AmazonGiftCardGiveaway #ListenNow
7 AUG 2025 · In this reflective and powerful episode, Chaplain Col Hollist returns to the Phantom Fuel Podcast by popular demand! This time, we dive into the nuanced and personal topic of religion vs. spirituality—what they mean, how they differ, and how they shape the resilience and mental wellness of our service members.Also in this episode:
✅ Tips for Nebraska Air Guard members to check yearly point totals
✅ A historic Best Warrior update as two Nebraska Soldiers head to nationals
✅ Construction & combat-readiness updates from the 623rd Engineer Company
✅ A full event preview: Retiree Appreciation Day, Wing Family Day, and the Knucklebusters Volleyball Tournament
✅ Summer safety reminders as the 101 Critical Days of Summer wind down🎁 GIVEAWAY INFO:
We’re launching a giveaway! Each Spotify comment and feedback form submission (see below) enters you to win a $50 Amazon gift card—with the winner announced during our 1-Year Anniversary Episode in December! (starting with the release of the this episode - episode 8)
📝 Leave your thoughts or enter here:
https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6
🎙 One entry per episode comment + one entry per month via feedback form = two chances monthly!📢 Support the Show:
✔ Like, follow, and subscribe
✔ Leave a Spotify comment or review
✔ Share this episode with fellow Airmen, friends, and family
✔ Want to co-host or share an event? Reach out via the feedback link above!Missed Episode 7? Don’t forget to check out our July patriotic edition, featuring REGIMENT and Rwanda’s Bilateral Affairs Officer.If you are a military or military family member in need of a Chaplain representative and you are in the Nebraska area, do not hesitate to call 402-429-4781
Welcome to The Phantom Fuel Podcast, your connection to the Nebraska Air National Guard like never before. This podcast was born out of listening to our Airmen and responding to...
show more
Welcome to The Phantom Fuel Podcast, your connection to the Nebraska Air National Guard like never before. This podcast was born out of listening to our Airmen and responding to their top priorities: better communication and a stronger sense of belonging. With The Phantom Fuel Podcast, we aim to educate, inform, entertain, and connect our community in ways we’ve never tried before. From insightful interviews and inspiring stories to important updates and practical tips, each episode is crafted with you in mind. Your feedback is essential in shaping this podcast - For all, made by Airmen!
show less
Information
| Author | Phantom Fuel |
| Organization | Phantom Fuel |
| Categories | Education |
| Website | www.spreaker.com |
| phantomfuel1@gmail.com |
Copyright 2026 - Spreaker Inc. an iHeartMedia Company
