

Ones Ready
Aaron Love, Trent Seegmiller, and Jared "Peaches" Pietras
A team of active duty Combat Control (CCT), Pararescue (PJ), and Special Reconnaissance (SR) leveraging our 69 years of special operations experience to make the next generation of operators smarter, faster and stronger than we ever were. We are the PREMIERE resource for all things Air Force Special Warfare. The Ones Ready Podcast is honest talk about what it is like to go from a know-nothing high school graduate to an elite Special Operator. We will cover important practices for success including physical training, nutrition, recovery, and mindset traits essential to any team. Join us in The Team Room to get all your questions answered!! With battle-tested operators from across USAF SPECWAR and far-reaching web of recruiters, subject matter experts, and friends, there are no questions we can’t answer- and if we can’t, we know exactly where to look. See you in The Team Room!Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the OnesReady team are those of the team and do not reflect the official policy or position of the DoD. Any content provided by our Podcast guests, bloggers, sponsors, or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign the DoD, any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 3, 2024 • 1h 18min
Ep 292: Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman #3 (ret) SEAC John Troxell
Send us a textSenior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman #3 served 37 years in the United States Army and achieved things that are beyond description. SEAC Troxell has a combat jump, achieved the pay grade of E-9 and the rank of SEAC, and has continued to lead hard with his nearly 4 decades of experience at all levels of the military. In this conversation, he shares his experiences in combat during Operation Just Cause and Desert Storm, highlighting the need for aggressive decision-making and a focus on excellence. SEAC Troxell emphasizes the importance of solid leadership and the development of a strive-for-excellence mentality. He also addresses the challenges facing the military today, including prioritizing combat readiness and instilling a sense of pride and ownership in the force. He discusses the importance of building self-discipline and ownership in the military. He emphasizes the need for leaders to instill a healthy fear and respect in their subordinates rather than relying on punishment. SEAC Troxell also highlights the lack of leaders who demonstrate excellence and strive for continuous improvement. He advocates for improving professional military education (PME) to focus on combat scenarios and building the best version of each service member. Troxell stresses the importance of understanding global threats and the need for credible deterrence. He encourages individuals to dream big, set attainable goals, visualize success, and enjoy the journey.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:00 Joining the Military and Early Career10:08 Combat Experience in Just Cause19:40 Desert Storm and Striving for Excellence25:24 Desire for More Responsibility and Strategic Leadership33:33 The Importance of Aggressive Decision-Making39:20 The Need for a Focus on Combat and Discipline46:04 Good Order and Discipline48:01 Building Self-Discipline and Ownership49:00 Instilling Healthy Fear and Respect49:29 Lack of Leaders Demonstrating Excellence50:27 The Challenge of Leadership52:22 The Need for Mentors and Role Models53:50 Improving Professional Military Education (PME)54:19 Distracted Focus on Diversity and Inclusion56:14 Understanding Support the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Jan 31, 2024 • 1h 4min
Ep 291: Facts Based Training Protocols with Dr. Preston Cline
Dr. Preston Cline from MCTI discusses military training, instructor development, and challenges of transitioning from operator to instructor. Emphasizes humility, curiosity, and empathy in training. Highlights the importance of repetition, experience, and cultivating NCOs. Explores the impact of the hard life on special operators and the need for honest conversations. Discusses the value of flexibility, communication, and maintaining a sense of humor in one's career.

Jan 27, 2024 • 1h 1min
Ep 290: Air Force Special Warfare- is "Leadership" Overused?
Send us a textWelcome back to the team room!!! This week, Aaron and Peaches talk about all sorts of things related to leadership. Not just in the military, but in the civilian world and life in general. In this conversation, Peaches and Aaron discuss the overuse and misconceptions surrounding the term 'leadership.' They explore the different roles and levels of leadership within organizations and the importance of being a supportive number two. They also highlight the significance of expertise and credibility in leadership and the value of both leaders and followers in a team. The conversation delves into conflict resolution, allowing room for failure and growth, and the challenges and nuances of leadership. They conclude by introducing Deep End Fitness Las Vegas and providing a promotion code for their services. This conversation explores the importance of continuous learning, the value of networking, and the power of utilizing networks for support. It also discusses the challenges of networking, the importance of being a good follower, and the role of compartmentalization. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the impact of effective leadership.00:00 Introduction and Overuse of the Term 'Leadership'03:06 Different Roles and Levels of Leadership04:03 The Importance of Being a Supportive Number Two05:04 Leadership Based on Expertise and Credibility06:02 Leadership in Specific Areas of Expertise07:27 The Misconception of Leadership at Different Ranks08:24 Leadership in High-Performing Teams09:37 The Importance of Both Leaders and Followers10:35 Conflict Resolution and Evaluation in High-Performing Teams11:42 Allowing Room for Failure and Growth12:54 The Fine Line Between Letting Younger Team Members Take Charge and Being the Experienced Leader16:00 The Importance of Consistency and Predictability in Leadership19:32 Characteristics of a Good Leader: Honesty, Transparency, and Accountability25:05 The Challenges and Nuances of Leadership27:47 The Importance of Being Consistent as a Leader30:23 The Role of Experience and Trusting Your Team32:23 Introduction to Deep End Fitness Las Vegas34:46 Promotion Code for Deep End Fitness Las VegasSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Jan 24, 2024 • 1h 3min
Ep 289: Air Force TACP Chief (ret) Tim "Chachi" Pachasa!!!
Send us a textWelcome back to the Ones Ready Team Room! This week, Aaron and Peaches talk with TACP Legend Tim "Chachi" Pachasa. Chief Pachasa has a storied career and has focused on developing future leaders long after he decided to hang up the Active Duty uniform. Chachi, a military veteran, shares his experiences and introduces the Pachasa 8 leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of understanding and caring for the human side of leadership. He discusses military leadership evolution, NCOs' role in caring for the human condition, and the success of the nine-line system in close air support. Chachi also highlights the significance of levity in the warrior mindset and the impact of self-care advocate Dr. Janelle McCauley. The conversation concludes with a call to assume righteous intent in interactions with others, emphasizing perspective and understanding.We hope you get as much out of this episode as we all did! Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background09:08 Missing the War and Redemption15:37 Leadership Development and the Pachasa 819:34 Cape Lead and the Importance of Caring26:11 Evolution of Military Leadership and Standards34:22 Connecting Airmen to the Mission37:40 The Importance of Perspective38:56 The Role of NCOs in Caring for the Human Condition40:27 Disagreement vs. Conflict41:47 The Need for Disagreement and Conflict Resolution43:09 The Importance of Open-Mindedness and Disagreement45:18 Creating Safe Spaces for Different Perspectives46:26 The Success of the Nine-Line System47:35 The Evolution of Close Air Support49:28 Expanding the Definition of Warriors51:09 The Value of Cyber Warriors52:05 The Importance of Kinetic and Non-Kinetic Effects53:11 Creating Spaces for Different Types of Warriors54:40 The Importance of Levity in the Warrior Mindset55:29 The Impact of Dr. Janelle McCauley58:43 The Importance of Self-Care and Putting on Your Oxygen Mask First01:00:36 Taking a Step Back and Assuming Righteous IntentSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Jan 20, 2024 • 57min
Ep 288: Genie Law Loopholes with Jarred Taylor
Send us a textWelcome back to the Ones Ready team room! This is a conversation for the record books, as Chief Pietras and Jarred Taylor sit down and cover a lot of ground. Make sure you're following @JtArticle15 everywhere you can find him on socials or in the real world! All of JT's episodes spur conversation, and this one is no different. What was your favorite part of the podcast? Drop it in the comments!!!Chapters00:00 Introduction and Hated Guest00:47 Conspiracy Theory: Air Force Against AFSW02:06 The Real Conversation to Have03:01 Perception vs Reality of Air Force Leadership03:31 Medical Procedures and Leadership Responsibility04:25 The Future of AFSPECWAR06:03 Integration Issues with the Army07:36 The Cost of AFSPECWAR08:17 Changing Focus of Training09:00 Providing Command and Control in Forward Edge09:31 The Shift in Mission and Training10:48 Clandestine Operations in Urban Environments11:22 Age and Maturity in AFSPECWAR12:45 Issues with Air Education and Training Command (AETC)13:58 The Need for Creative Thinking and Risk-Taking15:09 Risk Aversion in the Air Force17:00 Encouraging Critical Thinking and Pushing Boundaries18:32 Learning from Historical Figures in the Air Force19:28 Changing the Promotion System and Senior NCO Roles21:31 The Benefits of Age Restrictions and Inter-Service Recruiting23:16 Disciplinary Issues and Leadership Responsibilities25:18 The Need for Radical Change and Creative Solutions26:46 The Flawed Air Force Leadership Path28:35 The Need for SOCOM to Become Its Own Service30:46 The Air Force's Resistance to Change32:15 Encouraging Critical Thinking and Questioning34:07 The Tendency to Avoid Failure and Make Incremental Changes35:01 The Importance of Triaging and Prioritizing35:06 Reflective Belts and Base Regulations36:00 Current Projects and Stand-Up Comedy37:24 Studio Setup and Performances38:19 Decision to Action Gap41:16 Theory vs Reality43:02 Making Decisions and Accepting Imperfection45:18 The Unpredictability of Going Viral47:50 The ImpoSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Jan 13, 2024 • 56min
Ep 287: Air Force Special Warfare History w/ Morgan Huston- Part 2!
Send us a textWelcome back to the Team Room! Make sure you catch the first part of this episode here on our YouTube channel or wherever you download your podcasts! The intro says it all. Chief Peaches sits down with former TACP, current librarian and scholar, part-time historian, and full-time awesome dude Morgan Huston. We hope you enjoy! 00:00 Jared steals the intro from himself 01:00 The Shift in the Pathfinder Mission02:30 The Formation of Combat Control Teams05:28 The Role of Combat Controllers in Aerial Port Squadrons10:00 The Impact of Vietnam on Combat Control11:56 The Importance of Personnel Rescue13:46 The Coalescence of Career Fields16:39 The Role of Combat Controllers in Vietnam19:26 The Importance of Human-Based Operations23:18 The Shift to Counter-Terrorism25:45 The Creation of Special Operations Command27:13 The Role of Controllers in Operation Eagle Claw29:36 The Integration of Special Tactics and Global Access32:00 The Formation of Special Tactics Groups35:45 The Role of Controllers in Desert Storm37:42 The Importance of Controllers in Bosnia and Kosovo41:02 Shared Military Experience42:01 Bonds and Legends43:02 Uncertainty and Evolution44:11 The Importance of Adaptation45:36 Patience and Future Operations46:45 Pride in Service47:41 The Air Force as a Life-Changing Opportunity48:35 Tight-Knit Community49:28 Supporting Organizations50:09 The Global War on Terrorism51:09 The Challenge of Discussing Recent History52:36 Recommended Books53:48 Reading List54:26 Partners and Promotions55:23 Connecting with Morgan HustonSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Jan 12, 2024 • 33min
Airlift/Tanker Association: Celebrating Five Years
Send us a textIn this special episode marking the fifth anniversary of our podcast, the hosts gather for their first in-person recording to reminisce and look forward. They delve into the early days of podcasting, sharing insights on how their production process has evolved. A key focus of the conversation is the crucial role of first sergeants in the Air Force, emphasizing the significance of non-combat roles in the military. The hosts discuss the imperative of being prepared for the unexpected and the value of innovation in adapting to new challenges. Additionally, the episode highlights the importance of mentoring the younger generation, inspiring them to tackle problems and strive for greater achievements. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted and humorous conclusion, leaving listeners both informed and entertained. 00:00 Recording in Person01:27 Five Year Anniversary02:27 Early Days of Podcasting03:22 Five Year Party04:21 Interviews with Air Force Personnel05:18 Discussion about First Sergeants06:17 Appreciation for AMC Personnel09:02 Learning about AMC10:53 Recognizing the Contributions of Non-Combat Roles11:22 The Impact of Unexpected Situations13:15 Motivation to Do More15:08 Unleashing American Innovation18:05 Being Prepared for the Unknown20:07 Leadership and Problem Solving21:59 Inspiring the Younger Generation23:21 The Importance of Innovation25:09 The Illusion of Permanence27:18 Staying Ready and Being Prepared29:09 Upcoming Interviews31:29 Humorous EndingSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Jan 11, 2024 • 19min
Airlift/Tanker Association: A Conversation with Gen Minihan on Leadership and Innovation
Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the Ones Ready Podcast, we're honored to host a special guest, the Commander of Air Mobility Command (AMC). As he approaches the final stretch of his tenure, the Commander shares his insightful perspectives on leadership, innovation, and the future of AMC. We delve into the significant contributions and relentless efforts that AMC has made in advancing the capabilities of the Combat Air Forces, particularly through exercises like Mobility Guardian and the integration with the Pacific theater.The discussion also highlights the pivotal role of weapons officers and enlisted instructors in driving AMC forward, underscoring their expertise and the culture of operational adaptability within the command. The Commander reflects on the profound impact of his Pacific experiences and the challenges of navigating the dynamic and strategic environment in the region.As he prepares to pass the baton, the Commander outlines his goals for the remainder of his command - closing gaps identified in exercises, enhancing command relationships, and solidifying command and control mechanisms. He emphasizes the importance of empowering airmen, fostering a culture of innovation, and the criticality of understanding and owning operational risks.The episode also sheds light on the human element of military service, showcasing how the commitment and professionalism of airmen contribute to mission success in complex environments like the Allies Refuge operation. The Commander’s passion for nurturing a culture of service, recognizing the sacrifices of military families, and the deep emotional connections within the military community are palpable throughout the conversation.Join us for this enlightening and heartening discussion that not only celebrates the achievements of AMC but also offers a glimpse into the strategic vision and leadership philosophy guiding one of the Air Force's key commands. Whether you’re a service member, veteran, or someone interested in military leadership and innovation, this episode is a must-listen!Support the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Jan 10, 2024 • 1h
Ep 286: Air Force Special Warfare History with Morgan Huston
Send us a textWelcome back to Air Force Special Warfare's OFFICIAL (unofficial) podcast! In this episode, retired TACP, history buff, and librarian discusses the importance of history in the military and shares some fascinating stories from the history of Air Force Special Warfare. He talks about the origins of combat control and the role of pathfinders in World War II. He also highlights the heroic efforts of para doctors in Burma and the covert operations of weather teams in Yugoslavia. Overall, Morgan emphasizes the value of understanding the past to inform decision-making and appreciate the accomplishments of those who came before us. This conversation explores the history of special operations and close air support in Korea. It highlights the unique and unconventional operations carried out by weather observers, the challenges of operating without ISR, the importance of mission type orders and commander's intent, and the need to be comfortable operating in contested environments. The conversation also delves into the origins of rescue operations in Korea, including helicopter and seaplane rescues. It emphasizes the coordination and collaboration between different career fields and the evolution of close air support during the Korean War.We hope you like part 1 of this 2 part series! Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background01:20 Morgan's Interest in History06:20 Becoming a Librarian and Researching History08:07 The Importance of History in Deployments14:10 The History of Combat Control19:40 The History of CCT in World War II27:19 The History of PJ Rescue Operations35:14 The Yugoslavia Caper and the Role of SR36:38 Weather Observations in Yugoslavia37:08 Operating Without ISR39:10 Mission Type Orders and Commander's Intent40:14 Operating in Contested Environments41:09 Rescue Operations in Korea44:03 Air Rescue Service in Korea45:28 Helicopter Rescue Operations46:24 Seaplane Rescue Operations49:10 Coordination Between Career Fields51:31 Evolution of Close Air Support in Korea55:15 Coordination Challenges and Joint TrainingSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Jan 10, 2024 • 20min
Airlift/Tanker Association: Mrs. Ashley Minihan - A Military Spouse's Perspective
Send us a textIn this engaging episode of the Ones Ready Podcast, we have the pleasure of chatting with Mrs. Ashley, known affectionately as the five-star commander of AMC. As a seasoned military spouse, Ashley shares her unique journey alongside her husband through his military career. The conversation begins with a lighthearted query about their early days and quickly delves into the realities of military life, exploring the challenges and joys of being part of a service family.Ashley reflects on the critical decision points in their journey, where the question "Are we still having fun?" played a pivotal role in their commitment to service. She discusses the importance of support systems, particularly among spouses, and how these networks have been crucial in navigating the complexities of military life, especially during times of deployment and major family events.The discussion also covers the significance of finding strength and independence as a military spouse, and the transformative experiences that come with the lifestyle. Ashley emphasizes the value of community involvement and encourages new military spouses to engage with support groups to build resilience and camaraderie.Highlighting resources like the Five and Thrive website and Military One Source, Ashley provides invaluable advice for new military spouses, offering insights into navigating the unique aspects of military life, from understanding military language to accessing support for various needs.The episode also delves into the perspective shift that comes from being both the deployed member and the one left at home, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of military family dynamics. Ashley's entrepreneurial venture with her Etsy shop and her active role in initiatives like the Badger certification for the Squadron Command Course reveal her dedication to making a positive impact within the military community.Tune in to this episode of the Ones Ready Podcast for an enlightening conversation that not only celebrates the often-unsung heroes behind the uniform but also offers practical advice and a dose of inspiration for those embarking on or navigating the journey of military life as a spouse.Support the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...