Calm in the Chaos - U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer Podcast

Brian Dickinson

Calm in the Chaos shares real rescue stories from the U.S. Navy’s Aviation Rescue Swimmers. Hosted by Brian Dickinson—bestselling author, former Navy Rescue Swimmer, and Everest solo summiteer. Ranked in the top 10% of podcasts worldwide, the show digs into the grit, mindset, and faith it takes to run toward the chaos so others may live.

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Not affiliated with the U.S. Navy or DoD.

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20 episodes
Updated July 18

Episodes20

Newest first

July 18 · 1 hr 1 min
Dodging the USS Stark, a Minefield in the Persian Gulf & Sharks Under a Flipped Zodiac | Aviation Rescue Swimmer Bryan Huggett | Ep. 61
A last-minute decision to re-enlist and go home to get married kept Bryan Huggett off the USS Stark—just months before it was struck by two Iraqi Exocet missiles. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, Bryan shares 20 years of service split between the U.S. Navy and the Michigan Army National Guard: flying tanker escorts through Persian Gulf minefields during the Iran-Iraq War, rescuing a flipped Zodiac while sharks circled below, and later trading Navy wings for a decade as a Huey crew chief fighting wildfires and training Navy SEALs for Afghanistan. In this episode: The twist of fate that kept him off the USS Stark before it was hit by two Exocet missiles Flying tanker escort missions through Persian Gulf minefields during the Iran-Iraq War The night the USS Samuel B. Roberts hit a mine—and locking and loading on one of his own Rescuing a flipped Zodiac in the Atlantic, circled by sharks Trading Navy wings for a decade as a Huey crew chief in the Michigan Army National Guard Training Navy SEAL Team 1 ahead of their deployment into Afghanistan Two branches, two decades, and one calm head no matter what got thrown at him. 👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review. It helps more veterans, first responders, and families find these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST — Episode 61 So Others May Live. 🫡🇺🇸 Rescue Swimmer Merchandise https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com Military & First Responders: Use code SARRESCUE10 for 10% off 100% of proceeds support the podcast 📖 Calm in the Chaos — The Book by Brian Dickinson Available at www.briandickinson.net 📩 Booking & Media Inquiries: podcast@briandickinson.net For more content, subscribe and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson Calm in the Chaos: The Rescue Swimmer Podcast Untold Stories from U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmers #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #CalmInTheChaos #USSStark #PersianGulf #IranIraqWar #USSSamuelBRoberts #NavalAviation #USNavy #NavyVeteran #MilitaryVeteran #MichiganNationalGuard #ArmyNationalGuard #HueyCrewChief #SearchAndRescue #SAR #SEALTeam #NeverForget #SoOthersMayLive #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranStories #ResiliencePodcast #ServiceAndSacrifice #BrianDickinson #VeteranPodcast #HonorTheFallen
July 16 · 1 hr 6 min
Navy Rescue Swimmer Collin Koss – Multiple Rescues, F/A-18 Ejection, and the Journey to Officer
Collin Koss built a remarkable Navy career as a Rescue Swimmer, performing multiple rescues at sea before witnessing one of the most harrowing moments imaginable — an F/A-18 ejection that struck the back of the carrier. Later, Collin made the jump to officer, leading from the front and shaping the next generation of sailors. Now, with retirement on the horizon, he reflects on a career of service, sacrifice, and lessons that will last a lifetime. In this episode, Collin shares the highs and lows of his journey — from rescues in the fleet to the burden of command — and the perspective that only comes with decades in uniform. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 43 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #NavyRescueSwimmer #USNavy #HelicopterRescue #CombatRescue #MilitaryPodcast #NavalAviation #CarrierLife #F18 #RescueSwimmer #MilitaryLife #VeteranStories #SearchAndRescue #AviationPodcast #MilitaryHistory
June 3 · 59 min
20 Years, Parkinson’s Diagnosis & a Door Through the Rotors | Aviation Rescue Swimmer Kevin McNease
Some warriors fight their battles in the ocean. Others fight them long after the uniform comes off. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, Kevin McNease shares 20 years of service as a U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer—including a harrowing rescue in the South China Sea, pulling a Marine from the water who was still gripping his weapon, and one of the most terrifying mechanical failures imaginable: losing a helicopter door mid-flight—only to watch it shred through the rotor system. And then there's the battle he's fighting now. Kevin has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. And he's facing it the same way he faced every mission—with courage, clarity, and calm in the chaos. In this episode: 20 years of service as a U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer Rescue in the South China Sea Pulling a Marine from the water—still armed, still holding his weapon A helicopter door lost in flight—and what happened when it hit the rotors Mechanical failure at altitude with no margin for error Receiving a Parkinson’s diagnosis after two decades of service What resilience really looks like when the mission becomes survival itself The mental and emotional weight carried by those who serve Kevin McNease gave 20 years to this nation. His story—every chapter of it—deserves to be heard. 👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review. It helps more veterans, first responders, and families find these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST — Episode 58 So Others May Live. 🫡🇺🇸 Rescue Swimmer Merchandise https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com Military & First Responders: Use code SARRESCUE10 for 10% off 100% of proceeds support the podcast 📖 Calm in the Chaos — The Book by Brian Dickinson Available at www.briandickinson.net 📩 Booking & Media Inquiries: podcast@briandickinson.net For more content, subscribe and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson Calm in the Chaos: The Rescue Swimmer Podcast Untold Stories from U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmers #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #CalmInTheChaos #Parkinsons #ParkinsonsWarrior #ParkinsonsAwareness #SouthChinaSea #NavyRescue #MarineCorps #HelicopterFailure #MechanicalFailure #NavalAviation #USNavy #NavyVeteran #MilitaryVeteran #VeteranHealth #SoOthersMayLive #SearchAndRescue #SAR #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranStories #ResiliencePodcast #MilitaryResilience #LeadershipUnderFire #MentalToughness #ServiceAndSacrifice #BrianDickinson #VeteranPodcast #HonorTheFallen
June 3 · 57 min
Helicopter Crash at Night + Russian Sub Contact | Aviation Rescue Swimmer Richard Swope
Some missions go wrong before they even begin. Others turn into something no one could have planned for. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, Richard Swope shares his career as a U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer—including two of the most intense moments a rescue swimmer can face: surviving a helicopter crash at night in the open ocean during an active rescue, and gaining sonobuoy contact on a Russian submarine trailing a U.S. aircraft carrier—moments before a collision with the carrier itself. These aren't training scenarios. These are the real missions that define what it means to operate at the edge of human capability—in the dark, in the water, with no margin for error. In this episode: Helicopter crash at night during an active ocean rescue Surviving open-ocean impact and the chaos that followed Gaining sonobuoy contact on a Russian submarine Near-collision with a U.S. aircraft carrier Decision-making when everything goes wrong at once Mental toughness forged in real-world high-stakes missions What it means to serve as a U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer Richard Swope's story is a masterclass in staying calm when the situation is anything but. This is exactly what the Calm in the Chaos podcast was built for. 👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review. It helps more veterans, first responders, and families find these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST — Episode 57 So Others May Live. 🫡🇺🇸 Rescue Swimmer Merchandise https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com Military & First Responders: Use code SARRESCUE10 for 10% off 100% of proceeds support the podcast 📖 Calm in the Chaos — The Book by Brian Dickinson Available at www.briandickinson.net 📩 Booking & Media Inquiries: podcast@briandickinson.net For more content, subscribe and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson Calm in the Chaos: The Rescue Swimmer Podcast Untold Stories from U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmers #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #CalmInTheChaos #HelicopterCrash #NavyHelicopter #RussianSubmarineContact #ColdWarNavy #AircraftCarrier #NavyMilitary #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranStories #SoOthersMayLive #USNavy #NavyVeteran #MilitaryVeteran #RescueMission #SearchAndRescue #SAR #NavalAviation #OpenOceanRescue #SurvivalStory #MilitaryStories #SpecialOperations #ResiliencePodcast #LeadershipPodcast #MentalToughness #MilitaryLeadership #BrianDickinson #VeteranPodcast
May 4 · 48 min
Hoisted Down to the Orion Capsule | Artemis II Astronaut Recovery Rescue Swimmer Chris Upton | Ep. 60
The whole world watched the Orion capsule splash down in the Pacific and the U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer hanging from a cable beneath an MH-60S Sea Hawk—lowered down to bring the astronauts home from the Moon. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, Chris Upton shares what it was like to be one of the Aviation Rescue Swimmers on the hoist during the historic Artemis II recovery. After NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen splashed down off the coast of San Diego—returning from humanity's first lunar mission in over 50 years—Chris was part of the team trusted to physically bring them up out of the Pacific and onto the helicopter that would deliver them to the USS John P. Murtha. This is the view from the cable. Chris takes us inside the training, the rehearsals, the precision, and the quiet pressure of being the person at the end of the hoist when the world is watching—and four lives are in your hands. In this episode: Being lowered on the hoist during the Artemis II astronaut recovery What it felt like to come face-to-face with astronauts returning from the Moon The rehearsals, mockups, and training that prepared the team for splashdown day Flying with HSC-23 and the precision required between pilot, crew chief, SMT, and swimmer Working alongside the Navy dive medical team and NASA's Landing and Recovery team Bringing astronauts home one by one to the USS John P. Murtha The legacy of Navy Rescue Swimmers in U.S. space recovery missions What it means to be the last link in the chain that brings someone home Chris Upton was part of one of the most historic recovery missions in modern naval aviation. His story is a window into the quiet professionalism of the men and women who live by four words: So Others May Live. 👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review. It helps more veterans, first responders, and families find these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST — Episode 60 So Others May Live. 🫡🇺🇸 Rescue Swimmer Merchandise https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com Military & First Responders: Use code SARRESCUE10 for 10% off 100% of proceeds support the podcast 📖 Calm in the Chaos — The Book by Brian Dickinson Available at www.briandickinson.net 📩 Booking & Media Inquiries: podcast@briandickinson.net For more content, subscribe and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson Calm in the Chaos: The Rescue Swimmer Podcast Untold Stories from U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmers #ArtemisII #Artemis2 #ArtemisIIRecovery #NASA #OrionCapsule #Splashdown #AstronautRecovery #MoonMission #ReidWiseman #VictorGlover #ChristinaKoch #JeremyHansen #USSJohnPMurtha #HSC23 #SeaHawk #MH60S #HelicopterRescue #HoistRescue #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #CalmInTheChaos #NavyRecovery #NavalAviation #USNavy #NavyVeteran #MilitaryVeteran #SoOthersMayLive #SearchAndRescue #SAR #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranStories #ResiliencePodcast #LeadershipUnderFire #MentalToughness #ServiceAndSacrifice #BrianDickinson #VeteranPodcast #SpaceRecovery #NASARecovery #PacificOcean #SanDiego
May 4 · 1 hr 3 min
Artemis II Splashdown, Astronaut Recovery | Aviation Rescue Swimmer Sean Sondergaard | Ep. 59
When NASA's Orion capsule splashed down in the Pacific off the coast of San Diego, four astronauts came home from the Moon for the first time in over 50 years. And right there—feet from the capsule, voice on the radio, eyes on every moving piece—was a U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, Sean “Sondy” Sondergaard takes us inside one of the most historic recovery missions in modern naval aviation history—the Artemis II astronaut recovery. From the safety boat positioned right next to the Orion capsule, Sean was coordinating communications between the divers, the helicopters, the recovery ship USS John P. Murtha, and NASA's Landing and Recovery team as Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen were brought home from lunar orbit. But Artemis II is just one chapter. Sean shares what it takes to earn the wings of a Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer, the missions that shaped him, and what it felt like to be part of a team trusted by NASA to bring astronauts safely back to Earth. In this episode: Inside the Artemis II splashdown and recovery operation What it's like to be in the safety boat next to the Orion capsule Coordinating communications between divers, helicopters, NASA, and the recovery ship The training that prepares Navy Rescue Swimmers for missions of this magnitude Assigned to HSC-23, working with the Navy dive medical team, and the USS John P. Murtha Bringing astronauts home from the Moon for the first time in over 50 years The legacy of Navy recovery operations—from Mercury and Apollo to Artemis What it means to wear the wings and live "So Others May Live" Sean Sondergaard's story is a reminder that behind every historic mission is a team of quiet professionals doing the hard, dangerous, precise work the world rarely sees. 👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review. It helps more veterans, first responders, and families find these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST — Episode 59 So Others May Live. 🫡🇺🇸 Rescue Swimmer Merchandise https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com Military & First Responders: Use code SARRESCUE10 for 10% off 100% of proceeds support the podcast 📖 Calm in the Chaos — The Book by Brian Dickinson Available at www.briandickinson.net 📩 Booking & Media Inquiries: podcast@briandickinson.net For more content, subscribe and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson Calm in the Chaos: The Rescue Swimmer Podcast Untold Stories from U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmers #ArtemisII #Artemis2 #ArtemisIIRecovery #NASA #OrionCapsule #Splashdown #AstronautRecovery #MoonMission #ReidWiseman #VictorGlover #ChristinaKoch #JeremyHansen #USSJohnPMurtha #HSC23 #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #CalmInTheChaos #NavyRecovery #NavalAviation #USNavy #NavyVeteran #MilitaryVeteran #SoOthersMayLive #SearchAndRescue #SAR #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranStories #ResiliencePodcast #LeadershipUnderFire #MentalToughness #ServiceAndSacrifice #BrianDickinson #VeteranPodcast #SpaceRecovery #NASARecovery #PacificOcean #SanDiego
April 20 · 1 hr 3 min
Apollo vs Artemis Recovery | Navy Aircrew Compare Splashdown Ops (Mike Longe & Steve Williams)
For the first time, Apollo-era and Artemis-era recovery are compared side by side by the people who actually did the job. Mike Longe, U.S. Navy helicopter aircrewman from the Apollo recovery missions, and Steve Williams, Senior Chief rescue swimmer supporting Artemis operations, break down what really happens when a capsule hits the water. Same mission. Different era. We walk through the full evolution—splashdown, swimmer deployment, stabilization, and hoist—and compare what’s changed from Apollo 13 recovery operations to modern Artemis procedures. No theory. No commentary. Just operators. Topics covered: Apollo 13 recovery operations (Navy helicopter aircrew) Artemis recovery procedures and modern systems Rescue swimmer role vs legacy aircrew operations Splashdown timeline and critical first minutes Hoist operations in open ocean conditions What’s actually harder now vs then If you’re interested in NASA recovery operations, helicopter rescue, or real-world decision-making under pressure, this is the breakdown. #Apollo13 #Artemis #NASA #RescueSwimmer #HelicopterRescue #SearchAndRescue #NavalAviation #SpaceRecovery #MilitaryOperations #Leadership
April 10 · 1 hr 27 min
Combat Search and Rescue Veteran Bryan Trembath | 10 Gulf Deployments, 300+ Missions, Pentagon 9/11 First Response
Combat Search and Rescue Veteran Bryan Trembath | 10 Gulf Deployments, 300+ Missions, Pentagon 9/11 First Response Some careers are built in training. Others are forged in real-world missions. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, Bryan Trembath shares 21 years as an Aviation Rescue Swimmer, including 10 deployments to the Gulf and over 300 direct action missions in Combat Search and Rescue. His first real mission started on September 11, 2001—responding by helicopter to the Pentagon in the immediate aftermath of the attack. That moment set the tone for a career defined by operational intensity, responsibility, and sustained performance under pressure. We talk about what it takes to operate at that level over time—mission after mission, deployment after deployment. In this episode: • 21 years as an Aviation Rescue Swimmer • Combat Search and Rescue operations • 10 deployments to the Gulf • 300+ direct action missions • Responding to the Pentagon on 9/11 • Sustaining performance over a long career • Decision-making under pressure • Leadership in high-risk environments No shortcuts. Just experience earned the hard way. 👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review. It helps more veterans, first responders, and families find these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST — Episode 55 So Others May Live. 🫡🇺🇸 Rescue Swimmer Merchandise https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com Military & First Responders: Use code SARRESCUE10 for 10% off 100% of proceeds support the podcast #CSAR #911Pentagon #DirectAction #SpecialOperations #SoOthersMayLive
March 31 · 51 min
Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer Ben Thacker | Real SAR Rescues from NAS Whidbey Island, Leadership & Decision-Making Under Pressure
Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer Ben Thacker | Real SAR Rescues from NAS Whidbey Island, Leadership & Decision-Making Under Pressure What does it take to execute real-world rescues when there’s no margin for error? In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, Aviation Rescue Swimmer Ben Thacker breaks down multiple live rescue missions out of NAS Whidbey Island SAR. This is a look inside the reality of Search and Rescue—where preparation meets pressure and decisions carry weight. We cover what it takes to stay ready, perform under stress, and operate as part of a crew when conditions deteriorate fast. In this episode: • Real-world SAR missions out of NAS Whidbey Island • What it’s like to be an Aviation Rescue Swimmer • Decision-making under pressure • Crew coordination and trust • Training vs. real rescues • Staying sharp when lives depend on it • Leadership at the operator level This one is for anyone in the military, aviation, or first responder world—and anyone responsible for making decisions when it counts. 👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review. It helps more veterans, first responders, and families find these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST — Episode 56 So Others May Live. 🫡🇺🇸 Rescue Swimmer Merchandise https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com Military & First Responders: Use code SARRESCUE10 for 10% off 100% of proceeds support the podcast #NavySAR #NASWhidbey #RescueSwimmer #CalmInTheChaos #SoOthersMayLive
March 11 · 1 hr 2 min
20 Years as a Navy Rescue Swimmer | SAR School Instructor to NSW Support | Greg Baker on High-Risk Rescues & Leadership Under Pressure
Greg Baker spent 20 years as a U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer, operating where hesitation costs lives and preparation is everything. From multiple real-world rescues to serving as a SAR School instructor responsible for shaping future Rescue Swimmers, Greg understands what separates average from dependable. He finished his career supporting Naval Special Warfare, operating in intense environments to track suspected bad guy vehicles based on intel. In this episode: • 20 years as a Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer • Multiple real-world rescue missions • Serving as a SAR School instructor • Supporting Naval Special Warfare (NSW) • Leadership under pressure • The mindset that sustains a long operational career (2) Bronze Stars — Joint Task Force Iraq (1) Joint Service Commendation Medal — Iraq (1) Navy Commendation Medal — HVBSS operation discussed on the show (7) Navy Achievement Medals — for multiple rescue missions 👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review. It helps more veterans, first responders, and families find these conversations. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 53 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #SARSchool #NavalAviation #NSW #NavalSpecialWarfare #SearchAndRescue #MilitaryLeadership #FirstResponder #CalmInTheChaos #SoOthersMayLive
February 25 · 1 hr 8 min
From Vietnam to Navy SAR Evaluator | Bob Nowak on 30+ Years of Search and Rescue, DEA Prisoner Recovery & Whidbey Island SAR
Bob Nowak brings more than three decades of real-world Search and Rescue experience—from the Vietnam era to Whidbey Island SAR, from high-risk recoveries to serving as a SAR Evaluator responsible for training and assessing the next generation. This episode is about longevity in service, the weight of responsibility, and the mindset required to lead when conditions deteriorate. In this episode: • 30+ years in Search and Rescue • Service during the Vietnam era • Whidbey Island SAR operations • The recovery of a DEA prisoner • What a SAR Evaluator looks for in rescue professionals • Leadership, discipline, and staying sharp over decades • Decision-making under pressure 👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review. It helps more veterans, first responders, and families find these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 52 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #SearchAndRescue #NavySAR #VietnamVeteran #WhidbeyIsland #DEARecovery #SARLeadership #MilitaryMindset #FirstResponder #DecisionMaking #CalmInTheChaos #SoOthersMayLive
February 11 · 1 hr 15 min
20+ Years as a Navy Rescue Swimmer | Flying Missions in Iraq with Jack Carr & SEAL Team Ops
I deployed twice to the Persian Gulf with Jeff Strickland, a brother who went on to serve more than two decades as a U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer and aircrewman. His career spanned multiple combat deployments, high-risk rescues, and unforgettable missions — including flying Iraq mission sets with SEAL sniper Jack Carr, and an intense injured SEAL medevac following a ship takedown. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, Jeff reflects on the highs and lows of a long Navy career — the camaraderie, the chaos, and the call to serve that never really fades. His perspective captures what it means to live the Rescue Swimmer creed long after the uniform comes off. In this episode: Deploying to the Persian Gulf and Iraq Flying with Jack Carr during real-world SEAL missions The injured SEAL medevac that tested training and heart Lessons from 20+ years of service and leadership in the Navy Brotherhood, resilience, and life after active duty 👉 Subscribe, share, and review — it helps more veterans, first responders, and families find hope through these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 51 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #JeffStrickland #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #JackCarr #NavySEALs #MedEvac #CalmInTheChaosPodcast #BrianDickinson #SoOthersMayLive #PersianGulf #IraqWar #CombatRescue #VeteranStories #NavyLife #SARCommunity #MilitaryBrotherhood #RescueSwimmerStories #USNavy For more content, subscribe to our channel and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson
January 27 · 1 hr 32 min
Aviation Rescue Swimmer | CrossFit Competitor | Rescue Near Papua New Guinea
Few people understand pressure like Aviation Rescue Swimmer Taryn Frazelle. A high-performance athlete and ranked CrossFit competitor, Taryn brought that same strength and discipline into the fleet—where staying calm isn’t optional, it’s life or death. During one intense mission near Papua New Guinea, a routine flight turned into a high-risk remote island rescue. Conditions were chaotic and the mission evolved by the second. But Taryn’s training, composure, and focus took over. Her calm in the middle of that storm saved lives and set the standard for what it truly means to be a Rescue Swimmer. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, Taryn shares: The full story of the rescue near Papua New Guinea What it takes to stay calm when everything around you is breaking down The mindset required to perform at the highest level—physically, mentally, and emotionally Lessons from the Rescue Swimmer community and the missions that shape you forever 👉 Subscribe, share, and review — it helps more veterans, first responders, and families find strength through these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 50 So Others May Live. 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com)Military and First Responders get 10% off with code: SARRESCUE10100% of proceeds support the podcast. #TarynFrazelle #RescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #SAR #SearchAndRescue #PapuaNewGuineaRescue #CrossFitAthlete #CalmInTheChaosPodcast #BrianDickinson #SoOthersMayLive #MilitaryStories #RescueSwimmerStories #WomenInTheMilitary #CourageUnderPressure #NavyLife #FirstResponderStories #MilitaryHeroes Follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast Twitter/X: https://x.com/briancdickinson/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinsonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson
January 27 · 1 hr 21 min
Navy Rescue Swimmer Awarded the Navy & Marine Corps Medal | CH-46 Gulf Rescue and Iraq Deployments
Over two decades in the Navy, Aviation Rescue Swimmer David Allen built a career defined by courage and commitment. During one harrowing mission in the Persian Gulf, a ship was going down — and David launched in a CH-46 helicopter into chaos. That rescue would earn him the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, one of the highest awards for heroism not involving combat. After that, David continued to serve as a SAR Instructor, at WTU (Weapons Tactic Unit) and later HSC-4, completing “3.5” deployments to Iraq. His story embodies the true spirit of the Rescue Swimmer creed — “So Others May Live.” In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, David shares: The full story behind the CH-46 Gulf rescue that tested every ounce of skill and faith The meaning behind receiving the Navy & Marine Corps Medal Life as a SAR Instructor and WTU Deployments with HSC-4 and lessons from 20+ years of service 👉 Subscribe, share, and review — it helps more veterans, first responders, and families find hope through these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 49 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #DavidAllen #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #NavyAndMarineCorpsMedal #CH46 #PersianGulfRescue #HSC4 #CalmInTheChaosPodcast #BrianDickinson #SoOthersMayLive #SARInstructor #WTU #IraqDeployments #NavyHero #VeteranStories #RescueSwimmerStories #NavyLife #CourageUnderPressure #MilitaryHeroes For more content, subscribe to our channel and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson
January 27 · 1 hr 1 min
Navy Rescue Swimmer | Off-Duty Water Rescue That Made National Headlines | Jeremy Way
Jeremy Way has spent 17 years as an active-duty U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer, responding to high-risk rescues where seconds matter and hesitation costs lives. Recently, Jeremy found himself in the headlines for a rescue that happened off duty. While eating lunch, he witnessed a woman drive her car into the water. Without waiting for responders, Jeremy and others entered the water and reached her just seconds before the vehicle sank, pulling her to safety. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, we talk about what makes moments like that possible—not luck, not adrenaline, but years of training, discipline, and readiness that never shuts off. This conversation goes beyond the headlines and into the mindset of someone who lives prepared—on duty or not. In this episode: 17 years as an active-duty Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer What real rescue swimmer training builds into decision-making The off-duty water rescue that made national headlines Why instinct takes over when time runs out Service, responsibility, and staying ready when no one’s watching 👉 Subscribe, share, and review — it helps more veterans, first responders, and families find hope through these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 48 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #USNavy #SearchAndRescue #WaterRescue #OffDutyHero #RealLifeRescue #MilitaryMindset #csar #NavyAviation #FirstResponder #RescueSwimmer #CalmintheChaos #DecisionMakingUnderPressure #JeremyWay #virginiabeach
Dec 17, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min
Retired Navy Rescue Swimmer | CNO SAR Model Manager to HSC-85 – Always the Student, Always the Teacher
With multiple deployments and decades of service, Jason Barney embodies what it means to be a lifelong student and leader. From his early days as a Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer to serving as CNO SAR Model Manager and with HSC-85, Jason’s career has been defined by excellence, mentorship, and innovation. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, Jason shares stories from his time in the Navy, the lessons learned from global deployments, and how he continues to shape the next generation of rescue swimmers. His perspective reminds us that leadership isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about staying teachable, even after retirement. In this episode: Lessons from multiple deployments The role and responsibilities of the CNO SAR Model Manager The evolution of the Rescue Swimmer program What it means to lead with humility and purpose 👉 Subscribe, share, and review — it helps more veterans, first responders, and families find hope through these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 47 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #JasonBarney #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #CNO #SARMODELMANAGER #HSC85 #CalmInTheChaosPodcast #BrianDickinson #SoOthersMayLive #NavyLeadership #NavyVeteran #RescueSwimmerStories #MilitaryMentorship #SARCommunity #VeteranStories #NavyLife #AlwaysTheStudent #MilitaryExcellence For more content, subscribe to our channel and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson
Dec 3, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
10 Years as a Navy Rescue Swimmer to Reptile Storyteller
For ten years, Tommy Maxwell served as a U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer, operating under pressure, saving lives, and learning from some of the best — including the late Master Chief Tony DiCenso, a legend in the SAR community. Now out of the military, Tommy has shifted his mission — from rescuing people to educating and inspiring others through wildlife storytelling. On his popular YouTube channel @Tommys_reptiles, he shares his lifelong passion for reptiles, showing the world that these misunderstood creatures deserve respect, not fear. In this episode of Calm in the Chaos, we talk about: What it’s really like to serve a decade as a Navy Rescue Swimmer The mentorship and legacy of Master Chief Tony DiCenso Transitioning from the military to civilian life and creative purpose Tommy’s mission to humanize reptiles and share wildlife filmmaking adventures 👉 Subscribe, share, and review — it helps more veterans, first responders, and families find hope through these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 46 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #TommyMaxwell #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #TonyDiCenso #CalmInTheChaosPodcast #BrianDickinson #SoOthersMayLive #NavySAR #Reptiles #WildlifeFilmmaking #VeteranStories #AnimalEducation #NavyVeteran #RescueSwimmerStories #SARCommunity #HumanizingReptiles #MilitaryToCivilian #NavyLife For more content, subscribe to our channel and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson
Dec 3, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
Navy Rescue Swimmer’s Life-or-Limb Decision During Hurricane Katrina
When Hurricane Katrina unleashed chaos across the Gulf Coast, Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer Tim Hawkins was sent into the storm. In the middle of the devastation, he faced an unthinkable decision — save a life or risk losing his. This episode of Calm in the Chaos dives into the real rescue missions of Hurricane Katrina, told by one of the men who lived it. Tim Hawkins shares what it meant to operate in impossible conditions — flooded cities, downed power lines, exhausted crews, and endless rescues. His split-second decision in that moment would define not just his mission, but his mindset for the rest of his life. In this episode: Inside the chaos of Katrina rescue operations The life-or-limb moment that tested Tim’s training and mindset Lessons in composure, courage, and compassion under pressure The brotherhood of the Aviation Rescue Swimmer community 👉 Subscribe, share, and review — it helps more veterans, first responders, and families find hope through these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 45 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #TimHawkins #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #HurricaneKatrina #CalmInTheChaosPodcast #BrianDickinson #SoOthersMayLive #SearchAndRescue #MilitaryStories #NavyLife #HeroicRescue #VeteranStories #NavyAviation #SAR #RealHeroes #SurvivalStories #NavyBrotherhood For more content, subscribe to our channel and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson
Nov 17, 2025 · 1 hr 33 min
Journey from Non-Designated Airman to Navy Rescue Swimmer and Surface Warfare Officer
He started as a non-designated airman aboard a Navy ship — no rating, no clear path forward. But through discipline, faith, and relentless drive, Laurquis earned his wings as an Aviation Rescue Swimmer, mastering one of the Navy’s toughest training pipelines. His journey didn’t stop there — he rose again, becoming a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO), leading sailors on the high seas. In this episode, we dive into: What life is like for a non-rated sailor trying to find direction The brutal reality and brotherhood of Rescue Swimmer School Leadership lessons that carried him into the Surface Warfare community The mindset that separates those who quit from those who rise 👉 Subscribe, share, and review — it helps more veterans, first responders, and families find hope through these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 44 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #LaurquisRockSowell #RescueSwimmer #NavyRescueSwimmer #AviationRescueSwimmer #NavySWO #SurfaceWarfareOfficer #CalmInTheChaosPodcast #BrianDickinson #NavyMotivation #MilitaryLeadership #RescueSwimmerStories #NavyLife #SoOthersMayLive #VeteranStories #USNavy #NavyJourney For more content, subscribe to our channel and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson
Nov 5, 2025 · 2 hr 12 min
Surviving the Unsurvivable: Jay Shropshire on the Kuwait Helo Crash, Brotherhood, and Finding Purpose After Service
In this powerful episode of Calm in the Chaos, I sit down with Jay Shropshire, retired Senior Chief, Aviation Rescue Swimmer — a brother I went through training with. Jay opens up about the catastrophic Navy helicopter crash in Kuwait that everyone miraculously survived, and the invisible battles that followed after 23 years of dedication to serving our country. We talk about survival, purpose, and the quiet struggle of transitioning from military life to civilian reality. It’s one of the heaviest and most honest episodes yet — a reminder that even the strongest warriors carry unseen scars. 👉 Subscribe, share, and review — it helps more veterans, first responders, and families find hope through these stories. CALM IN THE CHAOS PODCAST Episode 42 So Others May Live! 🫡🇺🇸 Keep Calm in the Chaos Merch (Link in bio or https://shop.calminthechaospodcast.com) Military and First Responders get 10% discount with code: SARRESCUE10 applied at checkout 100% of proceeds go to support the podcast! #CalmInTheChaosPodcast #AviationRescueSwimmer #RescueSwimmer #JayShropshire #BrianDickinson #NavyVeteran #SoOthersMayLive #HelicopterCrashSurvivor #MilitaryTransition #VeteranMentalHealth #Resilience #Brotherhood #FaithThroughAdversity #LeadershipUnderPressure #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranStories For more content, subscribe to our channel and follow @TheCalmintheChaosPodcast: Twitter: https://x.com/briancdickinson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandickinson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancdickinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson