The Valor Flight Crew

Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider

Produced in partnership with ECHO (Every Coast Helicopter Operations), the Valor Flight Crew Podcast promotes the personnel and life-saving equipment behind helicopter air ambulance services.

Join hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider for in-depth interviews and expert insights from air medical personnel, pilots, communication specialists, and maintenance crews who play critical roles in airborne emergency response.

Both members of the ECHO team, Mike and Blake, have diverse backgrounds in public safety aviation and leadership, allowing them to bring unique perspectives and expertise to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast.

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72 episodes
Updated July 22

Episodes72

Newest first

Sep 24, 2025 · 52 min
Episode 31 - The Evolution of Public Safety Aviation with Leonardo Helicopters Part 2
Welcome back to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode, we are joined by Mike Bucari and Sam Schaab from Leonardo Helicopters for a forward-looking conversation about the evolution of air medical services and the aircraft that make lifesaving missions possible. Together, we explore how Leonardo is using patient-centered design, automation, and real-time data transfer in shaping the next generation of EMS aviation. From balancing payload with performance, to the role of virtual reality training and lessons learned from military innovation, this episode dives into the crucial decisions driving the future of public safety aviation in the U.S. and across the globe. So, strap in—this one is all about adaptability, innovation, and what’s on the horizon for public safety aviation. Thank you to our sponsors Metro Aviation and Precision Aviation Group.
Sep 17, 2025 · 54 min
Episode 30 - The Evolution of Public Safety Aviation with Leonardo Helicopters Part 1
Welcome back to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode, we are joined by Mike Bucari and Sam Schaab from Leonardo Helicopters for a forward-looking conversation about the evolution of air medical services and the aircraft that make lifesaving missions possible. Together, we explore how Leonardo is using patient-centered design, automation, and real-time data transfer in shaping the next generation of EMS aviation. From balancing payload with performance, to the role of virtual reality training and lessons learned from military innovation, this episode dives into the crucial decisions driving the future of public safety aviation in the U.S. and across the globe. So, strap in—this one is all about adaptability, innovation, and what’s on the horizon for public safety aviation. Thank you to our sponsors Night Flight Concepts and Metro Aviation.
Sep 10, 2025 · 1 hr 22 min
Episode 29 Voices Behind the Mission: a Communication Specialist Perspective
Welcome back to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode of the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider sit down with communication specialists Carissima Collins and Toya Jones to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the air medical world. Together, they explore the critical role dispatch and communication professionals play in supporting frontline crews, from guiding missions to managing high-stress incidents. Through personal stories and candid discussion, Carissima and Toya share their career journeys, the specialized training required, and the emotional weight of their responsibilities. The conversation highlights the complexities of the dispatch process, the necessity of teamwork, and the challenges of making split-second decisions under pressure. Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for how communication specialists uphold professionalism, ensure effective coordination, and foster mutual respect among emergency medical services (EMS) and air medical teams. From navigating real-life incidents to emphasizing the importance of debriefing and cross-disciplinary understanding, this episode underscores how communication truly forms the backbone of safe, efficient, and compassionate patient care. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Night Flight Concepts and Precision Aviation Group.
Sep 3, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
Episode 28 - Halsey & Valor Flight Crew: Inside the World of Air Medical Rescue
Welcome back to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Blake Shrider and Mike Fadale from the Valor Flight Crew Podcast for an inside look at the demanding world of air medical services. Together, they share firsthand accounts of life on the front lines, where every decision can make a lasting impact on survival. The conversation explores the personal and professional challenges flight crews face — from balancing family life with the unpredictable nature of the job to managing the emotional toll of high-stakes missions. Listeners will gain valuable insight into the critical importance of mental health resources, the power of cohesive teamwork, and the ways technological advancements — from AI-driven documentation tools to state-of-the-art medical equipment — are transforming the industry. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes of the skies, celebrating their unwavering dedication, resilience, and passion for saving lives in even the most extreme conditions. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Metro Aviation and Precision Aviation Group.
Aug 27, 2025 · 58 min
Episode 27 - Both Sides of the Skids: A HEMS Evolution from Provider to Patient Part 2
Welcome back to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode, hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider sit down with someone who brings a rare and powerful perspective to the table—Jason Bazelow, a seasoned helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) provider whose journey has taken him from the back of the aircraft as a paramedic to the hospital bed as a patient. Jason opens up about the moments that shaped his career—from early inspirations and close calls in the field, to the evolution of medicine and its impact on our patients in flight. This isn’t just a conversation about helicopters and protocols—it’s about people, purpose, and perseverance. We’ll explore the human side of high-acuity medicine: The toll it takes, the camaraderie that keeps it going, and the emotional depth that often goes unspoken. While we often don’t realize the importance of the care we provide, Jason's powerful story of facing a life-threatening health crisis brings into sharp focus the critical importance of empathy, communication, the medicine we provide, and how it all ties together. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned veteran, this episode is a must-listen. It’s a reminder to never take life for granted and behind every mission is a story worth hearing. So buckle in—this is one flight you won’t forget. Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group, Spectrum Aeromed and Technisonic Industries.
Aug 20, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Episode 26 - Both Sides of the Skids: A HEMS Evolution from Provider to Patient Part 1
Welcome back to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode, hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider sit down with someone who brings a rare and powerful perspective to the table—Jason Bazelow, a seasoned helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) provider whose journey has taken him from the back of the aircraft as a paramedic to the hospital bed as a patient. Jason opens up about the moments that shaped his career—from early inspirations and close calls in the field, to the evolution of medicine and its impact on our patients in flight. This isn’t just a conversation about helicopters and protocols—it’s about people, purpose, and perseverance. We’ll explore the human side of high-acuity medicine: The toll it takes, the camaraderie that keeps it going, and the emotional depth that often goes unspoken. While we often don’t realize the importance of the care we provide, Jason's powerful story of facing a life-threatening health crisis brings into sharp focus the critical importance of empathy, communication, the medicine we provide, and how it all ties together. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned veteran, this episode is a must-listen. It’s a reminder to never take life for granted and behind every mission is a story worth hearing. So buckle in—this is one flight you won’t forget. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Coptersafety and Metro Aviation.
Aug 13, 2025 · 1 hr 14 min
Episode 25 - Lifelong Learning in the Skies: Education for Flight Clinicians Part II
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode of the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider sit down with helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) education leaders Alan Wolfe and Christian Greengrass to examine the ever-changing landscape of air medical and critical care transport. Together, they explore the role of simulation in sharpening clinical judgment, the value of certification in professional development, and how tailored educational strategies can support diverse learning styles. The discussion dives deep into the intersection of mentorship, confidence-building, and the growing influence of technology—including artificial intelligence in documentation and training. Alan and Christian share insights on how structured educational pathways and prep programs can bridge the gap between experience and readiness, especially for clinicians entering air medical services. This episode sheds light on the financial realities of EMS education, the push for innovation in training delivery, and the importance of adapting our teaching models to grow—and retain—the next generation of flight and critical care clinicians. Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group, Spectrum Aeromed and Technisonic.
Aug 6, 2025 · 1 hr 13 min
Episode 24 - Lifelong Learning in the Skies: Education for Flight Clinicians Part I
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode of the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider sit down with helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) education leaders Alan Wolfe and Christian Greengrass to examine the ever-changing landscape of air medical and critical care transport. Together, they explore the role of simulation in sharpening clinical judgment, the value of certification in professional development, and how tailored educational strategies can support diverse learning styles. The discussion dives deep into the intersection of mentorship, confidence-building, and the growing influence of technology—including artificial intelligence in documentation and training. Alan and Christian share insights on how structured educational pathways and prep programs can bridge the gap between experience and readiness, especially for clinicians entering air medical services. This episode sheds light on the financial realities of EMS education, the push for innovation in training delivery, and the importance of adapting our teaching models to grow—and retain—the next generation of flight and critical care clinicians. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Coptersafety and Metro Aviation.
Jul 23, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
Episode 23 - Mindset of the Resuscitationist: The calm inside the chaos Part 2
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode, we’re diving into the mindset of the resuscitationist, and what it takes to perform under pressure when every second counts. This week we are joined by Dr. Garrett Cavaliere as we explore how preparation, teamwork, and self-awareness shape outcomes in high-stress environments like flight medicine. We’ll talk about managing stress responses, the impact of fatigue, the power of mental rehearsal, and the value of debriefing after critical incidents. If you're in the business of saving lives under pressure, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Throughout this episode, Dr. Cavaliere references various studies and graphs, so be sure to head over to our YouTube channel to get the full effect of this conversation. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Metro Aviation and Precision Aviation Group.
Jul 16, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
Episode 22 - Mindset of the Resuscitationist: The calm inside the chaos Part 1
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode, we’re diving into the mindset of the resuscitationist, and what it takes to perform under pressure when every second counts. This week we are joined by Dr. Garrett Cavaliere as we explore how preparation, teamwork, and self-awareness shape outcomes in high-stress environments like flight medicine. We’ll talk about managing stress responses, the impact of fatigue, the power of mental rehearsal, and the value of debriefing after critical incidents. If you're in the business of saving lives under pressure, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Throughout this episode, Dr. Cavaliere references various studies and graphs, so be sure to head over to our YouTube channel to get the full effect of this conversation. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Metro Aviation and Precision Aviation Group.
Jul 9, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
Episode 21 - All Flight Paths Lead to Louisville: Inside the 2025 ECHO Conference
Welcome back to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this special episode, we are joined by Ashley Chitty, ECHO’s marketing director and one of the driving forces behind this year’s much-anticipated ECHO Conference in Louisville! We’re diving deep into what makes this conference more than just another gathering—how it’s evolved, what keeps the energy alive, and why the ECHO family is unlike anything else in public safety aviation. From world-class education and powerful vendor partnerships to fresh initiatives and a true sense of community, this conversation is your insider look at everything coming your way in Louisville. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be part of something bigger—something that connects, supports, and inspires flight crews across the country—this episode will light that fire. Registration is open, and trust us, you’ll want to be there. Let’s get into it. Thank you to our sponsors: Airbus, Night Flight Concepts and Precision Aviation Group.
Jul 2, 2025 · 49 min
Episode 20 - High Fidelity Simulation on a Low Fidelity Budget Part 2
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode, we dive into the world of simulation training in helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) with special guest Jonathan Corolla. From high-fidelity mannequins to low-cost, high-impact solutions, we explore how simulation is evolving and why it’s critical for preparing crews to perform under pressure. Jonathan brings a wealth of experience in crafting realistic scenarios that connect with clinicians and improve outcomes in the field. We’ll talk about the challenges of building effective training programs, the power of creative problem-solving, and why advocacy and buy-in are key to making it all work. Whether you’re in the air or on the ground, this conversation is all about training smarter, pushing boundaries, and staying mission-ready. Thank you to our sponsors Metro Aviation, Night Flight Concepts and Precision Aviation Group.
Jun 25, 2025 · 48 min
Episode 19 - High Fidelity Simulation on a Low Fidelity Budget Part 1
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode, we dive into the world of simulation training in helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) with special guest Jonathan Corolla. From high-fidelity mannequins to low-cost, high-impact solutions, we explore how simulation is evolving and why it’s critical for preparing crews to perform under pressure. Jonathan brings a wealth of experience in crafting realistic scenarios that connect with clinicians and improve outcomes in the field. We’ll talk about the challenges of building effective training programs, the power of creative problem-solving, and why advocacy and buy-in are key to making it all work. Whether you’re in the air or on the ground, this conversation is all about training smarter, pushing boundaries, and staying mission-ready. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Metro Aviation and Precision Aviation Group.
Jun 18, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min
Episode 18 - Healthy Providers, Stronger Outcomes: The FIT for Flight Mindset Part 2
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode of the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosts Blake and Mike sit down with guests Michelle Kline and Vince Dravecky for a much-needed conversation on wellness in the EMS profession. Together, they dive into the often-overlooked topic of provider health, introducing the FIT for Flight Triad—a holistic approach to fitness that balances nutrition, physical conditioning, and mental health. The episode calls for a cultural shift in EMS: one that moves beyond burnout and begins prioritizing personal well-being as a professional standard. With honest reflections and practical tips, Michelle and Vince share their own wellness journeys, emphasizing the power of small, consistent changes, realistic goal-setting, and building a supportive community. From meal prep in a chaotic EMS schedule to managing stress and staying physically active as the years go by, the conversation is packed with relatable challenges and actionable strategies. The crew breaks down misconceptions, like the pressure for perfection in nutrition, and explores tools like the 80-20 rule and leveraging available resources like nutritionists and peer support. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how intentional lifestyle choices—backed by accountability, organizational support, and community encouragement—can lead to healthier, more resilient clinicians. Because at the end of the day, being Fit for Flight means being ready for anything—mentally, physically, and emotionally. Thank you to our sponsors Metro Aviation, Spectrum Aeromed and Technisonic.
Jun 11, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
Episode 17 - Healthy Providers, Stronger Outcomes: The FIT for Flight Mindset Part 1
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode of the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosts Blake and Mike sit down with guests Michelle Kline and Vince Dravecky for a much-needed conversation on wellness in the EMS profession. Together, they dive into the often-overlooked topic of provider health, introducing the FIT for Flight Triad—a holistic approach to fitness that balances nutrition, physical conditioning, and mental health. The episode calls for a cultural shift in EMS: one that moves beyond burnout and begins prioritizing personal well-being as a professional standard. With honest reflections and practical tips, Michelle and Vince share their own wellness journeys, emphasizing the power of small, consistent changes, realistic goal-setting, and building a supportive community. From meal prep in a chaotic EMS schedule to managing stress and staying physically active as the years go by, the conversation is packed with relatable challenges and actionable strategies. The crew breaks down misconceptions, like the pressure for perfection in nutrition, and explores tools like the 80-20 rule and leveraging available resources like nutritionists and peer support. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how intentional lifestyle choices—backed by accountability, organizational support, and community encouragement—can lead to healthier, more resilient clinicians. Because at the end of the day, being Fit for Flight means being ready for anything—mentally, physically, and emotionally. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Metro Aviation and Precision Aviation Group.
Jun 4, 2025 · 1 hr 18 min
Episode 16 - Past, Present & Future: ECHO's Blueprint for Supporting Public Safety Aviation
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. In this episode, hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider sit down with Jody Gregory, ECHO president, and Joe Zarek, ECHO vice-president, to discuss the many intricacies of this community-driven organization dedicated to supporting all aspects of public safety aviation. Together, they dive deep into ECHO’s origin story, the values that drive its mission, and the programs making a real difference—from mental health and peer support to safety initiatives, networking, and education. You’ll hear about the Future Flight Crew program, the integration of the Education Committee, and what’s on the horizon for ECHO, including upcoming conferences, and new directions in law enforcement and military aviation. So, whether you're a seasoned ECHO member, new to the organization, or just thinking about joining, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and dedication, and is sure to give you an insider's perspective into an organization that's lifting each other up—literally and figuratively. There’s an AIRMET for turbulence, because the ECHO is definitely getting louder! So, buckle up and enjoy this engaging conversation with some of the ECHO leadership team. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Spectrum Aeromed and Technisonic.
May 28, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
Episode 15 - Maintaining the Mission - Part 2
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. Welcome back to another episode of the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, where we dive into the people, partnerships, and behind the scenes work that keep our helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) operations running. Today, we're talking about a part of the mission that doesn't always get the spotlight, but absolutely deserves it. In this episode, titled “Maintaining the Mission,” we are joined by Faith Ortega, an ANP mechanic with vast experience across general aviation and transitioning now into EMS aviation. Faith brings a unique perspective on what it takes to keep aircraft safe, mission ready, and in the air, especially in high pressure environments where time matters to our patients. We'll get into everything from preventative maintenance and emergency repairs to the communication dynamics between mechanics, pilots, and med crews. Faith also shares what it's like to teach mechanics transitioning from the military to civilian aviation, also mentoring this next generation of maintainers and how evolving technology is shaping the future of this field. Whether you're in the air, on the ground, or somewhere in between, this episode is for anyone who knows that every mission starts with an aircraft that is well maintained. So, let's dive in. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus and Metro Aviation.
May 21, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
Episode 14 - Maintaining the Mission - Part 1
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO and brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. Welcome back to another episode of the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, where we dive into the people, partnerships, and behind the scenes work that keep our helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) operations running. Today, we're talking about a part of the mission that doesn't always get the spotlight, but absolutely deserves it. In this episode, titled “Maintaining the Mission,” we are joined by Faith Ortega, an ANP mechanic with vast experience across general aviation and transitioning now into EMS aviation. Faith brings a unique perspective on what it takes to keep aircraft safe, mission ready, and in the air, especially in high pressure environments where time matters to our patients. We'll get into everything from preventative maintenance and emergency repairs to the communication dynamics between mechanics, pilots, and med crews. Faith also shares what it's like to teach mechanics transitioning from the military to civilian aviation, also mentoring this next generation of maintainers and how evolving technology is shaping the future of this field. Whether you're in the air, on the ground, or somewhere in between, this episode is for anyone who knows that every mission starts with an aircraft that is well maintained. So, let's dive in. Thank you to our sponsors Airbus and Precision Aviation Group.
May 14, 2025 · 54 min
Episode 13 ECMO on the Move: Revolutionizing Pre-Hospital Cardiac Care Part 2
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. Buckle up as we take you behind the scenes of some cutting-edge advancements in emergency medicine and critical care transport. In this episode, hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider sit down with Kevin Rixmann, clinical supervisor at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, to discuss a game-changing innovation in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest treatment with their mobile ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) program. Together, they explore the evolution of eCPR and ECMO, the critical role of rapid response, and the collaborative efforts needed to identify candidates and educate community emergency services. Kevin shares key insights into the challenges of implementing this life-saving technology, from streamlining response times and improving training for emergency medical services (EMS) providers to the utilization of ECMO99 and air medical services. We all know that caring for out of hospital cardiac arrest patients presents many challenges for us in the helicopter EMS community, but be prepared to be impressed as Kevin discusses the crucial role air ambulances play in the survival of these patients. If you're passionate about emergency medicine, cutting-edge technology, and the relentless pursuit of better patient outcomes, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Stay tuned as we dive into the future of pre-hospital cardiac care and the impact of ECMO on survival rates. Also, as an added bonus … make sure you check out this podcast on our YouTube channel for extra pictures and videos of U of M’s Mobile ECMO Program and the process behind pre-hospital cannulation. Let’s get it started! Thank you to our sponsors Metro Aviation and Precision Aviation Group.
May 7, 2025 · 52 min
Episode 12 ECMO on the Move: Revolutionizing Pre-Hospital Cardiac Care Part 1 FOR REVIEW
Welcome to the Valor Flight Crew Podcast, hosted by ECHO, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and Vertical Valor Magazine. Buckle up as we take you behind the scenes of some cutting-edge advancements in emergency medicine and critical care transport. In this episode, hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider sit down with Kevin Rixmann, clinical supervisor at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, to discuss a game-changing innovation in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest treatment with their mobile ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) program. Together, they explore the evolution of eCPR and ECMO, the critical role of rapid response, and the collaborative efforts needed to identify candidates and educate community emergency services. Kevin shares key insights into the challenges of implementing this life-saving technology, from streamlining response times and improving training for emergency medical services (EMS) providers to the utilization of ECMO99 and air medical services. We all know that caring for out of hospital cardiac arrest patients presents many challenges for us in the helicopter EMS community, but be prepared to be impressed as Kevin discusses the crucial role air ambulances play in the survival of these patients. If you're passionate about emergency medicine, cutting-edge technology, and the relentless pursuit of better patient outcomes, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Stay tuned as we dive into the future of pre-hospital cardiac care and the impact of ECMO on survival rates. Also, as an added bonus … make sure you check out this podcast on our YouTube channel for extra pictures and videos of U of M’s Mobile ECMO Program and the process behind pre-hospital cannulation. Let’s get it started! Thank you to our sponsors Airbus and Metro Aviation.