Ep 371: Steven Pietras - USAF Air Traffic Control & Hurricane Helene Response

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In this episode, Aaron, Peaches, Trent, and Steven get real about the dedication it takes to respond to crises. Steven shares his firsthand experience as a Guard member running ATC for Hurricane Helene relief, describing the ground-level coordination that brought in over 100,000 pounds of supplies and thousands of flights in and out of affected areas. They dig into the pride and resilience it takes to run toward disaster while others might turn away, showing how the Guard and Air Force Special Warfare play crucial, under-appreciated roles in domestic ops.
From working with Sentinel Foundation teams to the nitty-gritty of controlling chaotic air traffic with minimal tools, Steven breaks down the challenges of mission-focused operations, managing civilian volunteers, and facing the devastation up close. If you’re ready for an inside look at the hard-hitting, non-stop nature of real military response, this episode will inspire you to step up.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Team Dynamics
02:15 Air Traffic Control Insights
05:47 Joining the Air Force: Personal Stories
11:03 Transitioning from Student to Instructor
18:46 Response to Hurricane Helene
22:31 Understanding LZSO and Its Importance
25:54 Community Response and Legacy
32:40 The Role of Non-Military Support
54:14 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

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