Blue Yonder

In one of the most raw and honest Blue Yonder conversations yet, Jess Knutson opens up about the highs of his Air Force career, the depths of post-service alcoholism and mental health struggles, and the long road to recovery and accountability. Joined by Jason Acre, the discussion shines a light on what it truly takes to rebuild when life falls apart.  

In this episode, Jake sits down with retired Air Force officer Kylene Ruth to discuss her journey from the Academy to squadron command, her evolution as a leader, and the challenges and triumphs of transitioning into civilian life.

Dan Slaughter shares his 26-year journey from Army brat to Special Forces officer, cybersecurity expert, and real estate developer. A grounded and thoughtful conversation on transition, identity, and service beyond the uniform.

In this episode of Blue Yonder, Jacob reconnects with retired Chief Rich Pelletier to explore how purpose, service, and leadership shaped his military career and post-service success. From their time launching leadership initiatives at Shaw AFB to Rich's transition into Amazon, the conversation dives deep into discovering your next mission, the power of mentorship, and why role modeling matters mo...

In this episode of Blue Yonder, Jacob reconnects with his first Air Force roommate, Jeff Tucker, to reflect on nearly three decades of friendship, service, and transition. Jeff shares his unexpected path to the Air Force at age 23, his experiences as a recruiter, and the highs and lows of military life — including leadership challenges, post-9/11 deployments, and tough career decisions. They talk...

In this powerful episode of Blue Yonder, Jake reconnects with longtime friend and retired Air Force veteran Charles Holman for the first time in nearly two decades. What unfolds is a deeply candid conversation about trauma, transformation, and the often unseen weight of military service. From his chaotic early years and near-death experiences to becoming a respected leader in both military and tec...

In this candid conversation, Jake sits down with retired Air Force Master Sergeant Michael Rainer to explore the highs, lows, and unexpected realities of life after the military. Michael opens up about the decision to join the Air Force, the challenges of staying in, and the pivotal moment when he chose retirement—not because he was ready to stop serving, but because his family needed stability. H...

In this episode, Jake sits down with Willie Payne, a man who has built a life around hard work, humility, and staying true to his values. From the early days of working under pressure to navigating career changes and building family life, Willie shares reflections on what it means to keep showing up—no matter what life throws your way. It’s a story of quiet strength, resilience, and real-world wis...

In this candid and deeply personal episode, Jacob sits down with longtime friend and retired Air Force firefighter Jeremy McFall. From skipping high school to leading firefighting teams in Iraq, Jeremy's story is one of transformation, resilience, and humility. The two veterans reflect on deployments, discipline, leadership lessons, and what it really feels like to transition out of 24 years of mi...

Today I got to spend some time with an old friend and discuss his journey through the military and into civilian life.  Huge take away...taking that sense of service and putting it in a box and off to the side.  If you have been there then you know that feeling.

This podcast-style transcript features a candid conversation hosted by Jacob Peeterse with long-time friends and fellow Air Force retirees Kent and Robbie Greenwood. The episode delves into their shared military past, their simultaneous retirement from the Air Force on April 1, 2024, and the personal transformations they’ve experienced since transitioning into civilian life.

Sat down with a long time friend Ryan and discussed his journey from retiring from the Air Force to being a real estate agent for professional athletes.  There are quiet a few twist and turns but very much worth the ride.  One huge thing sticks out to me from this discussion, when asked what he wishes he knew prior to retiring that he knows his answer was, there is nothing to fear!

Today I sat down with long time friend Josh and discussed his leaving the Air Force at a young age as well as his return to service as a commissioned officer.  We covered a lot of ground in between, hope you enjoy.