Phantom Fuel

About Phantom Fuel

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!

Publisher

Phantom Fuel

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

9 Jan 2025

Latest episode

4 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   4 Jun 2026

   Phantom Fuel Episode 017 “The Next Chapter: Global Healing, Joint Firefights & A New Voice on the Mic”

   🎧 Episode Summary This 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.👉 Phantom Fuel Feedback & Co-Host 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... here (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!

2. 

   7 May 2026

   Phantom Fuel Episode 016 “Flames and Filtered Coffee: Protecting Nebraska, Expanding Alliances & Building Unit Morale”

   🎧 Episode Summary May 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. Click Here (https://forms.gle/jiikL7tzGEZJR97v8) 🫵 Submit Feedback or Volunteer to HostWant to sit in the host's chair? Have an idea for a future episode? Phantom Fuel Feedback & Co-Host Form (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

3. 

   2 Apr 2026

   Phantom Fuel Episode 015 “The Next Chapter: Command Perspectives, Inspection Wins & Stepping Up”

   Release Date: April 2026 Season: 2 | Episode: 15 We 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. ☕ 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. Click Here (https://forms.gle/jiikL7tzGEZJR97v8) 🎙️ 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 Update The 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:Phantom Fuel Feedback & Co-Host Form (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.

4. 

   5 Feb 2026

   Phantom Fuel Episode 014 "The Deputy & The Diamond: Honoring Heritage & Global Impact"

   Release Date: February 5, 2026Season: 2 | Episode: 14 February 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:Phantom Fuel Feedback & Co-Host Form (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.

5. 

   1 Jan 2026

   Phantom Fuel Episode 013 “Season Two Launch: Retirement Readiness, Historic Tributes & Securing the Legacy”

   SSgt Lauren Gonzalez discusses financial readiness, the Blended Retirement System, and the end of an era for Nebraska’s Airborne, offering insights into military life and community events in an interview with RJ.

6. 

   4 Dec 2025

   Phantom Fuel Episode 012 "One Year Strong: Innovation, Insight & The Fuel That Keeps Us Going"

   Chief Hruby discusses the podcast's origins, innovation within the Guard, and leadership, while RJ revisits season one highlights and announces a giveaway winner in this anniversary episode, which is an interview.

7. 

   15 Nov 2025

   Phantom Fuel Episode 011: “Resilience & Readiness: Leading Through Change and Challenge”

   Colonel Christopher Hesse discusses his leadership journey and strategic vision for the 155th Air Refueling Wing with Senior Master Sergeant Eddy in this interview, highlighting resilience during challenging times.

8. 

   2 Oct 2025

   Phantom Fuel Episode 010 "Connection at the Core: Family Readiness, local partnerships, & recognition"

   Cara Lokin, Transition Specialist and Family Readiness volunteer, discusses how family support builds morale and resilience within the Nebraska Air National Guard in this interview episode.

9. 

   4 Sept 2025

   Phantom Fuel Episode 009 "Caffeinating Creativity: The 10 Hour Challenge & more"

   Host RJ and MSgt Select Mariah Heckman explore the 10-Hour Innovation Challenge with Kathy Anderson and Scott Henderson, discussing Guard highlights and upcoming events.

10. 

    7 Aug 2025

    Phantom Fuel Episode 008 "Belief Systems Unpacked: Where Religion & Spiritualty differ"

    Chaplain Col Hollist explores the distinctions between religion and spirituality, focusing on their impact on the resilience and mental wellness of service members in this interview.

11. 

    3 Jul 2025

    Phantom Fuel Episode 007 "Independence in Action: Strengthening Bonds Online and Worldwide"

    Host RJ interviews Unknowntehk about REGIMENT's role in providing connection and mental health support through gaming, while Maj. Boyd interviews Capt. Truscott regarding state partnerships and cultural diplomacy in Rwanda.

12. 

    5 Jun 2025

    Phantom Fuel Episode 006 "The Weight We Carry: Managing Stress in and out of Uniform"

    Colonel Hollist discusses stress management techniques applicable to military life and beyond, emphasizing available resources and the strength in seeking help in this interview episode.

13. 

    1 May 2025

    Phantom Fuel Episode 005 "Forging the Future: Leadership, Readiness, and the Road Ahead"

    In this powerful episode, we welcome Brigadier General Hargens and Senior Master Sergeant Eddy to the podcast for a deep dive into the leadership journey, strategy, and innovation shaping the Nebraska National Guard. Brig. Gen. Hargens shares how he went from farm life to Joint Force Headquarters, the Guard's four lines of effort, the tactical focus of our force, and how the Guard continues to make a unique impact at both the state and federal level. We also spotlight recent Guard successes, from groundbreaking fabrication work at the 155th Metals Tech Shop to Wahoo’s readiness center expansion, the 170th’s first unit deployment, and more. Plus, we preview upcoming events, talk summer safety, and share how you can be part of the show! Lastly, we remind you about summer safety and the 101 Critical days of Summer. 🎧 Listen now on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and more. 💬 We want to hear from you! Have topic ideas or want to be a co-host or guest on the podcast? Use this anonymous link and let us know who you are, how to reach you, and what you’re interested in. https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow Airmen!  Help give Nebraska a bigger push in the Podcast arena and grow.

14. 

    4 Apr 2025

    Phantom Fuel Episode 004 "Unlocking Opportunity: Vision, Impact & Advancement with Gig Eagle"(Part 2 )

    Gig Eagle Part 2, New Co-Host, and Big Events Ahead! Welcome back to The Phantom Fuel Podcast! In this episode, RJ is joined by a brand-new co-host, Jarell, who brings his experience from the Chaplain Corps to the table. Get to know Jarell as he shares his military journey, plus a special moment from 2024 that earned him national recognition! Then, we’re diving into Part 2 of our Gig Eagle interview with Chief Hruby and Captain Winkie. If you thought Part 1 was eye-opening, wait until you hear how Gig Eagle is already making an impact, modernizing outdated practices, and shaping the future for Airmen in Nebraska and beyond. And if you haven’t created your profile yet, now is the time! Head to GigEagle.mil (https://GigEagle.mil) from a CAC-enabled computer to get started. Also in this episode: Big recognition for Nebraska’s own Cara Loken, the 2024 Air National Guard Spouse of the Year! Upcoming events – from the Open Hangar event (April 17) to the Lincoln Marathon (May 4) and even a 5K on base during April Drill! 101 Critical Days of Summer – As we gear up for warmer months, let’s talk safety and preventing unnecessary mishaps. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow Airmen! Please leave your feedback, we need it to help develop this podcast to your needs, we’d love to hear from you. Feedback - https://forms.gle/6o6XwnJWgJXs77Bm6 GigEagle - https://www.GigEagle.mil

15. 

    6 Mar 2025

    Phantom Fuel Episode 003 "Unlocking Opportunity: Leveraging Military & Civilian Skills with Gig Eagle"(Part 1 )

    In this episode, we welcomed our very first co-host, James, to the Phantom Fuel Podcast! We got to know more about his journey in the Nebraska Air National Guard, what keeps him motivated, and his perspective on the opportunities the Guard provides. The highlight of this episode is our part 1 of 2 series , Gig Eagle, a powerful platform that helps Airmen leverage both their military and civilian skills for gigs across the world. Chief Hruby and Captain Winkie breaks it all down, showing us how this tool can open doors for professional growth. If you haven’t explored it yet, check out GigEagle.mil from a CAC-enabled computer to create a profile! We also took a moment to honor some incredible retirees who have left a lasting impact on the Nebraska Air National Guard especially: ✨ Chief Horne – 40 years of dedicated service To everyone who retired this month and prior, Thank you for your service and leadership! On top of that, we celebrated major milestones at the 155th and 170th—from the successful March exercise to the 170th standing up their first Guard-only **correction - in the podcast we said KC-135 this should have said Sortie - our apologies** and a Maintenance Change of Command Ceremony. Our teams are achieving amazing things, and this podcast is here to share those stories. 📢 Next month, we’ll be finishing up our two-part series on Gig Eagle—trust us, you won’t want to miss it! 🎧Listen now and let us know what you think - comments and reviews are very much needed - Do not forget to leave a review and a comment to help give Nebraska a voice in the Podcast arena!!! 💬Give your feedback here: https://freesuggestionbox.com/pub/czttzin Thanks for tuning in—stay safe, stay connected, and keep fueling the mission! #PhantomFuelPodcast #GigEagle #AirNationalGuard #YourVoiceMatters Links & Resources: https://gigeagle.mil/ Feedback Link - https://forms.gle/7dRT1avHGGa8CG1L9 ⁠https://www.militaryonesource.mil/ (https://www.militaryonesource.mil/) ⁠https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaNationalGuard (https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaNationalGuard) •⁠https://ne.ng.mil/About-Us/Our-Forces/Nebraska-Air-National-Guard/ (https://ne.ng.mil/About-Us/Our-Forces/Nebraska-Air-National-Guard/)

16. 

    7 Feb 2025

    Phantom Fuel Episode 002 "Fueling the Force through Mentorship" (Part 2)

    In this episode, we wrap up our inspiring two-part series on mentorship with Chief Hruby and Dr. Tammy Thompson, who share powerful insights on how mentorship transforms lives and strengthens our teams. We’ll also recap the epic 155th Christmas Party (yes, there was bull riding!) and share exciting updates, including the first 5K hosted by the 155th FSS team this April. Stick around for highlights on recent accomplishments within the Nebraska National Guard, including a national sniper title and major legislative wins for our members. Don't miss this month's inspiring stories and valuable updates — fuel your mission and stay connected with the Nebraska National Guard community. Listen now, like, subscribe, comment, and share! Thanks for tuning in to Episode 2 ofThe Phantom Fuel Podcast! Your feedback helps us improve. Take the time to turn on those alerts because next month, we’ll be talking about Gig Eagle. Trust us—you won’t want to miss how this can make a real difference in your personal and military career. Take care, stay safe, and keep fueling the mission! Links & Resources: • Feedback Link - https://forms.gle/7dRT1avHGGa8CG1L9 •Military OneSource (https://www.militaryonesource.mil/) •Nebraska National Guard Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaNationalGuard) •National Guard Website (https://ne.ng.mil/About-Us/Our-Forces/Nebraska-Air-National-Guard/)

17. 

    9 Jan 2025

    Phantom Fuel Episode 001 "Inaugural Beginnings"

    Welcome to the very first episode of Phantom Fuel! This podcast is a product of the Nebraska Air National Guard Innovation Team and is designed to connect, communicate, and strengthen our community.In this inaugural episode, we:- Kick off a two-part series on mentorship with a conversation between Dr. Tammy Thompson and Chief Hruby, exploring how mentorship fosters personal and professional growth.-Share important winter safety tips, covering everything from travel precautions to mental health awareness.-Highlight the amazing work of Airmen within the Nebraska Air National Guard and beyond, showcasing stories of teamwork, training, and community impact.Your feedback is critical as we shape this podcast for you! Use the links below to share your thoughts, including what you enjoyed, what you’d like to hear more of, and any ideas for future episodes.Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow Airmen, your families and anyone else that could benefit from a great mentorship discussion! Together, we’ll fuel the mission and strengthen our connections.________________________________________Links & Resources:• Feedback Link: https://forms.gle/7dRT1avHGGa8CG1L9• Military OneSource: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/• Nebraska National Guard Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaNationalGuard• National Guard Website: https://ne.ng.mil/About-Us/Our-Forces/Nebraska-Air-National-Guard/

Who has been a guest on Phantom Fuel

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Lauren Gonzalez
• Colonel Christopher Hesse
• Cara Lokin
• Kathy Anderson
• Scott Henderson

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

78

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 40 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

41

Social presence

0

YouTube

63

Engagement

32

Contact Phantom Fuel

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

Questions about Phantom Fuel