Phantom Fuel

🎧 Episode SummaryThis 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 missi...

🎧 Episode SummaryMay 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 masterm...

Release Date: April 2026Season: 2 | Episode: 15We 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, an...

Release Date: February 5, 2026Season: 2 | Episode: 14February 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...

🎧 Episode SummaryWe are back for Season 2! In this premiere episode, we kick off 2026 with a refreshed format and a special focus on "Future You." Whether you are one year in or twenty years deep, financial readiness is mission-critical. We break down why retirement planning shouldn't wait and how the Blended Retirement System (BRS) affects you. Plus, we honor the end of an era for Nebraska’s Air...

One Year Anniversary EpisodeCelebrate one year of Phantom Fuel. RJ sits down with Chief Hruby — the driving force behind the Spark Cell and the Innovation Team — to talk about how the podcast got started, innovation in the Guard, leadership, and the power of new ideas. Then we rewind the year: highlights, hard lessons, big wins, and the moments that made Season 1 special. Throughout the year we ha...

Before we begin, a quick note: This episode was recorded during the government shutdown, before we were notified that content releases were temporarily paused. Thank you for your patience—this episode was originally scheduled for the first Thursday of November. Because of the delay, the $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway has been extended for 10 days after today’s release. Enter by sharing the episode,...

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on the people and programs that keep the Nebraska Air National Guard strong—on and off duty.🎙️ Inside this episode: A conversation with Cara Lokin, Transition Specialist & Family Readiness volunteer, on how family support builds morale and resilience. Guard highlights from Alaska to Germany—Security Forces in rugged training, Civil Engineers sharpening the...

This month, host RJ is joined by co-host MSgt Select Mariah Heckman for a packed episode featuring: ☕ The grand opening of the 155th Coffee Bar 💡 A deep dive into the 10-Hour Innovation Challenge with Kathy Anderson & Scott Henderson hosted by Chief Hruby ✈️ Nebraska Guard highlights—from a heritage-painted KC-135 farewell to our growing partnership with Tanzania 📅 Upcoming Guard family eve...

In this reflective and powerful episode, Chaplain Col Hollist returns to the Phantom Fuel Podcast by popular demand! This time, we dive into the nuanced and personal topic of religion vs. spirituality—what they mean, how they differ, and how they shape the resilience and mental wellness of our service members. Also in this episode: ✅ Tips for Nebraska Air Guard members to check yearly point total...

As we celebrate Independence Day and all it stands for, Phantom Fuel returns with a star-spangled edition that spotlights both innovation and international cooperation. In this episode, host RJ sits down with Unknowntehk, a moderator from REGIMENT—America’s largest military gaming community. We dive into how REGIMENT provides connection, mental health support, and a shared sense of purpose through...

In this grounded and timely episode, we welcome Colonel Hollist from the Wing Chaplain office to explore an essential topic for military life and beyond — managing stress. Whether you're preparing for deployment, juggling civilian responsibilities, or just trying to keep your head above water, this conversation delivers real-world strategies for handling life’s mental and emotional pressures. Col....

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 mak...

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 intervi...

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 s...

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...

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 grow...