Oh Dark Thirty

In this engaging conversation, Levi Lucas and AJ Patalano share their extensive firefighting experiences, from wildland deployments to urban emergencies. They discuss the realities of firefighting life, training, wildland tactics, and the importance of community and camaraderie in high-stakes environments. Join us as AJ Patalano shares his intense firefighting experiences, wildland deployments, an...

Remembering friendships from decades ago can spark incredible insights. How have your childhood connections shaped who you are today? Tag someone who needs a reminder of their roots! In tonight's episode, Fred Keeney and I dive into our shared past, recalling the laughter and life lessons that have influenced our journeys. It's fascinating how the people we've known for years can leave a lasting i...

In this engaging interview, Blake Hereford shares his eight-year journey in law enforcement, recounting intense traffic stops, a chaotic domestic disturbance, and the realities of police work. Discover the adrenaline, challenges, and emotional toll of a career in policing, along with insights into officer safety and camaraderie.

Ever felt lost in a new role? Here’s how I navigated the confusion of stepping into a Sergeant Major position. Tag someone who needs to hear this! When I first took on the role of Air Defense Artillery Proponent Sergeant Major, I was overwhelmed. I showed up knowing little about what was expected of me. But instead of shying away, I embraced the challenge. That initial confusion? It sparked a jour...

Mr. G shares his incredible journey from a rough upbringing and Navy SEAL training to becoming a law enforcement officer and SWAT team member. He discusses the challenges of BUD/S, mental resilience, and the transition from military to police work, highlighting lessons learned and the brotherhood of veterans. Mr. G shares his intense journey through Navy SEAL training, overcoming injuries, mental...

In this episode, flight medic Clay Huerter returns to discuss the intricacies of his job, including the challenges of weather conditions, the differences between helicopter and fixed-wing operations, and the dynamics of patient transport. Clay shares insights into the daily life of a flight medic, including scheduling, training, and the unique challenges faced during air transport. He recounts cha...

In this episode, Mike McCarty shares his journey from a construction worker to a firefighter, detailing his experiences over 25 years in the Branson Fire Department. He discusses the challenges and rewards of firefighting, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of tough calls on his life. Mike reflects on the camaraderie within the fire service, the transition to retirement, and the legacy h...

In this episode, Levi welcomes Seth Danger Palmer, a soldier with a unique journey from JAG Corps to sniper in the National Guard. They discuss Seth's military career, the challenges of navigating military bureaucracy, and the importance of adaptability in service. The conversation also touches on the humor found in military life, the complexities of mobilization, and the significance of personal...

In this episode of O Dark 30, host Levi engages in a candid conversation with David Laird, a Warrant Officer and helicopter pilot, discussing his journey from being an MP to flying Chinooks. They delve into the challenges and changes within the Army Reserve Aviation, share deployment stories from Guantanamo Bay, and reflect on their experiences in law enforcement. The conversation highlights the i...

In this episode, Levi interviews Heath Hudson, a former Marine and current firefighter, discussing his military background, experiences in aviation ordnance, and transition to firefighting. Heath shares memorable stories from his service, the camaraderie he found in both the military and fire service, and the importance of maintaining connections with fellow service members. He reflects on the pur...

In this episode, Levi interviews Jeremy Peifer, a retired military officer, discussing his extensive military career, deployment experiences, and the bonds formed during service. They reflect on the changes in military training, the nostalgia of past deployments, and how those experiences shape their current lives. Jeremy shares humorous and poignant stories from his time in the military, emphasiz...

In this episode of Oh Dark Thirty, host Levi welcomes his long-time friend Buddy Burgess, reminiscing about their shared experiences from basic training nearly 26 years ago. The conversation dives into their mischievous antics during training, including practical jokes that kept them entertained during long nights on fire guard. Buddy shares memorable stories of their time in the military, includi...

In this lively conversation, four friends share their experiences in firefighting and military service, reflecting on the chaos and camaraderie that define their lives. They recount memorable calls, humorous anecdotes, and the lessons learned from their time together. The discussion highlights the importance of friendship, simplicity, and the unique challenges faced by first responders and militar...

In this episode, Levi shares his personal journey from military service to firefighting and law enforcement, reflecting on his experiences, challenges, and the lessons learned along the way. He discusses his time in the military, including deployments and the camaraderie built with fellow soldiers, as well as his transition to a career in firefighting and law enforcement. Levi emphasizes the impor...

In this episode of O Dark 30, host Levi sits down with Chris Walters, a former navigator in the Missouri Air National Guard. Chris shares his journey from being enlisted to becoming a navigator on a C-130, detailing the challenges he faced in college that led him to join the military. He discusses his experiences during multiple deployments, the roles and responsibilities of a navigator, and the i...

In this episode of Oh Dark Thirty, Levi interviews Matt Eaves, a captain at Branson Fire, discussing his journey in the fire service, memorable experiences, rookie mistakes, and the importance of camaraderie and teamwork. They share stories from the firehouse, the challenges of the job, and the significance of including families in their work. The conversation highlights the lighter side of firefi...

This one gets a little dark people. 24 on the job you will see some things. Brett tells us how it is and the darkness of the job.

Tonight I sit down with Kelsi S. and discuss what its like and what it takes to be a female in law enforcement. Plenty of laughs ahead! Get ready because we get real!

Tonight we sit down with Justin Fitzwater and talk firefighting, legacies, and a lot of chaos. Buckle up, its about to get real!

If you’ve ever pulled an overnight shift, stood watch when the world was asleep, or sat around telling stories long after you should’ve gone home — then you already get it. That’s what this show’s about. Here, we’re gonna swap stories from the folks who’ve been there — military, firefighters, cops, medics, and everyone in between. It’s not polished, it’s sure as hell ain’t perfect… it’s just real...