PODCAST · education
Radio Boat Forces
by Produced by: Boat People
Radio Boat Forces offers essential discussions on maritime operations, professional development, open-source policy updates, and field insights from around the country. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard. Nevertheless, Radio Boat Forces provides exclusive content with leading experts, offering operational and leadership insights, as well as special guest interviews addressing mission-critical topics such as search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, aids to navigation, and other Coast Guard mission areas. Whether you serve in the Coast Guard, a maritime partner agency, or consider yourself a military or maritime enthusiast, Radio Boat Forces delivers practical knowledge, historical insights, and other engaging content with a touch of light-hearted fun along the way.
Episodes
-
Coast Guard Football with Coach C.C. Grant
This week on Radio Boat Forces, we’re joined by a leader who knows exactly how to turn potential into performance, head coach of the Coast Guard Academy football team, Coach C.C. Grant. Entering his sixth season with the Bears, Coach Grant brings nearly three decades of experience developing...
-
TRACEN Yorktown's BM A-School
This episode takes us to Training Center Yorktown, where Coast Guard Boatswain’s Mates are forged through 14 weeks of hands-on training in seamanship, navigation, and small boat operations. Set near the historic grounds of Yorktown, where a decisive American Revolution victory helped shape the...
-
Boat Forces Goes to Harvard
Operational demands don’t pause, and neither does the responsibility to lead when conditions shift without warning. This episode features Mr. Eric McNulty, Associate Director of the National Preparedness Leadership Initiative at Harvard University and co-author of You're It: Crisis, Change, and…
more -
Puddle Pirate (Actual)
What started as Coast Guard ribbing, “puddle pirates,” the tongue-in-cheek nickname for near-shore ops, became something else entirely. Puddle Pirate Gear celebrates that spirit with quality tees, hoodies, and accessories that honor Coast Guard legacy, resilience, and pride while poking fun at...
-
Season 1 Finale w/CAPT McCarthy & New OBF Crew
In the Season 1 finale, we welcome the newest members of the Office of Boat Forces team: YN1 Katie Mayer and LTJG Tommy Vroman. We learn who they are, where they’ve been, and what drives their commitment to the fleet. Then we sit down with CG-731 Actual, CAPT Michael McCarthy, for a high-level…
more -
So, You Wanna Buy a Boat
Ever hear a BM say, “Why don’t we just use this boat I found online?” Turns out, there’s a bit more to it. In this episode, Lieutenant Kevin Flood from the Office of Boat Forces, Platform Management (2-Side) walks us through what really happens before a new Coast Guard platform ever hits the…
more -
Big River ATON - Heartland District
We sit down with BMCM Kraig McCellan and BMCM Thomas Hines, OICs of the Coast Guard construction tenders Cheyenne and Gasconade, based in St. Louis. Their stories bring to life the critical but often unsung role these river-borne platforms play in sustaining our nation’s infrastructure and…
more -
A Warrant-ed Conversation
When two of the Coast Guard’s Specialty Force Managers sit down together, you know you’re in for more than just policy talk. In this episode, CWO Robert Birdwell and CWO Robert Devoy take us inside the world of warrant officers where experience meets leadership, and every decision can ripple...
-
Live from the Arctic District: ANT Sitka
In this episode, Radio Boat Forces heads north to the rugged beauty of Sitka, Alaska, where the Officer in Charge, BMC Dean Buckler and his team from ANT Sitka keep mariners safe amid some of the most challenging waters in the nation. From shifting currents and icy channels to winds that test…
more -
Boat Forces and Joint Doctrine (NWDC)
In this episode, we sit down with CDR Ryan Koroknay, U.S. Coast Guard liaison to the Naval Warfare Development Center in Norfolk, VA. He provides insight into how the Coast Guard contributes to the Navy’s efforts in shaping joint doctrine and advancing maritime operations. Our conversation traces...
-
STA Kenosha - SMS & FOL
In this episode, BMCM Adam Bure, Officer-in-Charge of Coast Guard Station Kenosha, walks us through what it takes to lead a Scheduled Mission Station (SMS) and a Forward Operating Location (FOL). From seasonal ice rescue to law enforcement and search-and-rescue, the operational demands are...
-
The First Aviation Rescue Swimmer was a BM?
In this episode, we sit down with LCDR Steven Ober (ret)., whose career reflects both the traditions of Boat Forces and the evolution of Coast Guard aviation. Beginning his service on small boats, he advanced from crewmember to coxswain before transitioning into aviation, where he became the…
more -
RBF Soundtracks
After getting multiple requests, we’re answering the call. This week’s episode is your one-stop shop for the music you’ve been hearing throughout the episodes. So, whether you’re driving, just need a boost, or getting ready for your PFT - we’ve got you covered. Teaser: did you know the very first...
-
Frogmen, Spies, and Boat Forces - Part II
When a story is too good to leave on the cutting-room floor, you make room for a second run. In this follow-up episode with CDR Michael Bennett, USCG (Ret.), we share the candid, unscripted parts of our conversation that went beyond WWII boat forces and into the broader legacy of Coast Guard...
-
Frogmen, Spies, and Boat Forces - Part I
When the mission calls, some stories are too extraordinary to stay classified. In this episode, we sit down with CDR Michael Bennett, USCG (Ret.), founder of the website Guardian Spies and one of the leading voices in modern Coast Guard intelligence. From the daring missions of OSS maritime units...
-
Platform Updates w/CG-7312
This episode welcomes CDR Noel Johnson, Chief of the 2-side (CG-7312) in the Office of Boat Forces, for a deep dive into the Coast Guard’s small boat community. From managing fleet readiness to tackling the challenges behind the scenes, CDR Johnson offers valuable perspective on how policy...
-
From OIC Board to Panel
In this episode, CDR Leo Danaher (CG-7311) walks us through his firsthand experience with an OIC screening panel. He shares invaluable advice on strengthening your panel package, from highlighting mission-aligned competencies to framing leadership accomplishments effectively. CDR Danaher…
more -
Boat Forces Meet Shore Forces w/CAPT Fine
In this episode, CAPT Matthew Fine offers a flyover of CG-741’s role in connecting with Boat Forces programs. From ensuring readiness through data-driven training initiatives to deepening reserve integration under the Shore Forces Reserve Management Plan, CAPT Fine explains how CG-741 is the...
-
Boat Forces at the U.S. Strategic Level
This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard or the Office of BoatForces. We shift the lens from deck-plate operations to the broader national security picture. Drawing from a recent Atlantic…
more -
RAND Report Review: U.S. Coast Guard Workforce 2040
Today we’re breaking down how workforce transparency and talent management shape your career, and how they might tie into Force Design 28. We unpack the RAND report Workforce 2040: Better Management Through Transparency and explore its suggestions for assignment fairness, operational flexibility,...
-
Meet CG-731's Naval Architect
This week we sit down with Mr. Dave Shepard from the Office of Boat Forces, a key figure behind some of the Coast Guard’s most iconic platforms. From the early days of the 47-foot Motor Lifeboat to the development of the Response Boat–Medium, Mr. Shepard shares insights on how these boats came to...
-
What About EAL?
We're joined by LT Chris Fuentes from the Office of Boat Forces 1-Side to discuss Electronic Asset Logbook (EAL). LT provides insight on the system’s role in capturing operational data, new changes to the way we capture information, and highlights some upcoming training opportunities. EAL, part…
more -
Boat Forces Medical Readiness Capability
We dive into the critical role of medical readiness in Coast Guard small boat operations. From heat casualties to trauma care in rough seas, we explore how EMT skills keep missions on track and save lives. We discuss medical gear, improvisation, and what crews can do to enhance their medical...
-
Meet CG-7311 + LifeRing
In this episode, we sit down with CDR Leo Danaher from CG-7311 to gain sharp, firsthand insight into the evolving landscape of Coast Guard operations. With a wealth of experience from recent tours, CDR Danaher reflects on key lessons learned, the operational tempo facing Boat Forces today, and…
more -
ME-RFMC + What if We Never Left the Navy in 1946?
Outgoing ME Rating Force Master Chief Ryan Patterson sits down with us to reflect on his tour as the enlisted leader for Maritime Enforcement specialists. With approximately 7,000 certified boarding officers and boarding team members across active and reserve components, he shares lessons…
more -
Hurricane Season 2025
This week, we dive into Hurricane Season 2025 with insights from designated Coast Guard flood response members preparing to meet the potential mission head-on. We recap a recent multi-unit training exercise featuring expert partners from SPEC Rescue International and spotlight how these...
-
ANT Eufaula in Action + Propulsion and Fuel Talk with Dr. Kass
In this episode, we explore the future of marine propulsion with Dr. Michael Kass from Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Dr. Kass shares his expertise on alternative fuels, electrification, and the practical challenges of integrating new technologies into Coast Guard operations. We discuss fuel...
-
VADM William 'Dean' Lee (Ret.)
In this episode, we sit down with VADM William "Dean" Lee, a distinguished Coast Guard leader whose 36-year career culminated as Commander of Atlantic Area. Known not just for his command over vast operations but for his deep commitment to servant leadership, Admiral Lee shares timeless insights…
more -
No Sleep till Brooklyn, New PFT, Awards, and Insignias
Ever finish a patrol alert but later realize you don’t remember half of it? That’s not just exhaustion; it’s fatigue silently sabotaging your performance. In this episode, we dive into the neuroscience of fatigue with Dr. Allison Brager, U.S. Army officer and sleep expert, who breaks down how...
-
When CG-731 Leaves the Group Text
CAPT Jason Aleksak (CG-731) presses send one last time, marking the end of a chapter few get to write, and even fewer reflect on publicly. In this episode, he unpacks what it’s like to lead in ambiguity, make decisions with consequences miles away, and carry the weight of change with steady...
-
Who Named Boat Forces: Boat Forces?
Boat Forces once ran on heart and hustle...but lacked harmony. Then came Captain Dana Goward, a leader who didn’t just tweak the system, he rewired it. In this episode, we unpack how he turned scattered practices into a unified identity, applying aviation discipline to maritime grit. Recognition...
-
A.I. Navigation Systems & Cyber BMs
This episode dives into the future of maritime operations—both on the water and in the digital domain. First, we speak with Dor Raviv, Co-Founder and CTO of Orca AI, about how their situational awareness platform is helping commercial vessels avoid collisions, cut fuel use, and make smarter...
-
STA Portage & Coastal Dynamics With Dr. Muller
Discover the hidden forces shaping the waves beneath your vessel in this episode. Dr. Andrew Muller from the U.S. Naval Academy joins us to explore how nearshore hydrodynamics influence wave behavior, from sandbars and reef ridges to turbulent shoals and steep drop-offs. In the final segment of...
-
STA Cleveland Harbor & CG-731's New Facilities Program
The episode features Mr. Dave McConky, the Office of Boat Forces Facility Analyst, discussing his newly created role aimed at amplifying advocacy for Station and ANT facilities. He shares insights into his observations, concerns, and strategies for navigating a complex system constrained by…
more -
Drill Weekend at STA Port Aransas & RPM
In this episode, BMCM Tony Sofo and MSTCS Marcus Jetchev talk about the Reserve program at STA Port Aransas, which has been recognized as a success by reserve community leaders. They share how teamwork and smart strategies have helped make the program so effective. Also joining the discussion are...
-
STA Kauai & BM Strike Lyfe
In this episode, we dive into dynamic Coast Guard roles with BOSN Seth Hunt and BMC Michael McHugh. BOSN Hunt, from the Atlantic Strike Team, shares insights into the CISAR Flood Response Course, highlighting its importance and challenges, along with a glimpse into Boatswain's Mate life at a…
more -
STA Valdez & CISAR
In this episode, BM1 Matt Matella from MSST Miami offers an insider’s glimpse into the Critical Incident Search and Rescue (CISAR) training at Muscatatuck Urban Training Center in Butlerville, Indiana. Hear firsthand about the unique facilities, rigorous techniques taught, and how this training...
-
Pathway to OIC - Final
In this closing episode, CAPT Jason Aleksak (CG-731) and BMCM Grant Heffner (BM-RFMC) share parting thoughts on the evolving pathway to command, emphasizing key takeaways from the series and the importance of leadership development. Rounding off the conversation is BMCM Justin Olson, OIC STA...
-
Pathway to OIC - Part II
In this episode, CAPT Jason Aleksak (CG-731) and BMCM Grant Heffner (RFMC) make a return visit to delve deeper into topics from their previous discussion, providing listeners with valuable insights and updates. Joining the conversation is BMC Maria Collett, OIC STA Portage, who shares her...
-
Pathway to OIC - Part I
In this episode, we dive into the newly released Officer in Charge Review Board Manual with CG-731 - CAPT Jason Aleksak and the BM RFMC, Master Chief Grant Heffner. They break down key updates from the January release, offering their perspectives on the pathway to command and what the future…
more -
STA Tillamook Bay and CG-7312
Easy write up: Operational Wisdom Bombs from BMCS Bryan Ballenger and BM1 Patrick Smith from Coast Guard Station Tillamook Bay. Learn about their station's local history, AOR, and value-added insights from these seasoned professionals. This episode opens with a tip of the hat from the office's...
-
National Marine Center and ANT Colfax
In this episode, we welcome retired Warrant Officer Mr. Scott Wildrick from the National Marine Center for Customs and Border Protection. Mr. Wildrick shares insights into the program he oversees, which plays a crucial role in safeguarding our nation's maritime borders. We also had the…
more -
Lessons Learned with CG-1K3
Join us for an insightful episode of our podcast as we sit down with retired Coast Guard BOSN Mark Davenport from CG-13K. Drawing from his extensive experience, Mr. Davenport delves into the latest trends in mishap analysis and the future direction of key programs such as Risk Management (RM) and...
-
STA Bodega Bay and CG-7311
Dive into the world of the Coast Guard Reserve with our latest podcast episode featuring LCDR Kurt Mees (ret), a seasoned expert from the Office of Boat Forces Reserve Program Management. Discover the current initiatives reshaping the Boat Forces Reserve Force and gain insights into their...
-
Navy Chief - Coast Guard Chief: Cross Service Insights
Join Command Master Chief Glenda Atwood and Command Master Chief Victor Smith from the U.S. Navy Memorial, along with Master Chief Joe Hoff from the Coast Guard Office of Leadership, as they share their leadership expertise. Command Master Chief Atwood discusses the critical role of chiefs in the...
-
ANT Bristol & CG-7311
Join us for an exclusive look into how the Office of Boat Forces’ library of doctrine, policy, and TTPs are developed, managed, and processed through signature promulgation. We’ll hear directly from the expert behind the scenes, Mr. Ames Holbrook, as he shares his insights and experiences. Plus,...
-
Heroic Waters: Boat Forces History #1
In this episode, we are honored to feature Retired Navy CDR Tim Dring from the Coast Guard Historians Office. Commander Dring shares profound insights into the historical evolution of Boat Forces and our significant contributions during pivotal moments in history. This episode also introduces a…
more -
Deep Thinking and Big Strategy: Boat Forces 2050
Step into Boat Forces "War Room" with retired Coast Guard Captain Frank Parker, the Office of Boat Forces Operational Strategic Analyst. In this episode, discover the data and information collection processes that drive FAI, explore the strategic outlook for Boat Forces, and delve into the...
-
District 8: DIRAUX & OTO
Widen the aperture of awareness and opportunities by building on the insights and information generated by Master Chief Park (CG-BSX-12), with new information from CDR Adam Cernovich (District 8 DIRAUX), BOSN3 Dan Garver (District 8 OTO), and Auxiliarist Matthew Micalizzi. This is an Unofficial...
-
Small Boat Product Line (SBPL)
This week, we sit down with LCDR Jonathan Copley and LT Stephanie Motta from the Small Boat Product Line (SBPL) to gain insights into their world-of-work, current projects, and future initiatives. This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Radio Boat Forces offers essential discussions on maritime operations, professional development, open-source policy updates, and field insights from around the country. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard.
Nevertheless, Radio Boat Forces provides exclusive content with leading experts, offering operational and leadership insights, as well as special guest interviews addressing mission-critical topics such as search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, aids to navigation, and other Coast Guard mission areas.
Whether you serve in the Coast Guard, a maritime partner agency, or consider yourself a military or maritime enthusiast, Radio Boat Forces delivers practical knowledge, historical insights, and other engaging content with a touch of light-hearted fun along the way.
HOSTED BY
Produced by: Boat People
CATEGORIES
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Radio Boat Forces have?
Radio Boat Forces currently has 56 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Radio Boat Forces about?
Radio Boat Forces offers essential discussions on maritime operations, professional development, open-source policy updates, and field insights from around the country. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard....
How often does Radio Boat Forces release new episodes?
Radio Boat Forces has 56 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Radio Boat Forces?
You can listen to Radio Boat Forces on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Radio Boat Forces?
Radio Boat Forces is created and hosted by Produced by: Boat People.
URL copied to clipboard!