Late For Changeover

Big Air Force Training Shake-Up, Tuskegee Hero Remembered, the Military BioPic Game & Project Iceworm’s Secret History

From major changes coming to Air Force Basic Training  (11:37), to reviewing SecWar’s speech (27:56), to remembering one of the last original Tuskegee Airmen who lived to be 100 (54:14), this episode covers both today’s headlines and hidden stories from the past.  We also play the “Guess the Score” game with military biography movies (58:47), and take a deep dive into Project Iceworm—the Cold War plan to build nuclear missile sites under the ice of Greenland in 1959 (01:13:21). A mix of history, news, and fun that you don’t want to miss! https://lateforchangeover.com/

🚀 Who’s the Patron Saint of Space Force? | Space Movie Quiz + Operation Name Game

This week the Late Crew is TDY.  So this episode contains hilarious clips from our past shows: First, we debate who should be the official patron saint of the U.S. Space Force (01:28). Then, we test our knowledge with a fast-paced Space Movie Quiz—can you beat us on the classics and cult favorites? (13:11) Finally, we dive into the hilarious (and sometimes bizarre) world of military codenames in the Operation Name Game. (34:31)  Tune in for laughs, history, and some out-of-this-world insights! https://lateforchangeover.com/

MARS MISSION🚀DRUG BOAT SUNK⚓STRICTER ARMY RULES✂️BATTLE OF THE WEST⚔️COLD WAR SECRETS🔒

From space to the sea, and deep into history—this week’s stories span it all.  An Air Force test pilot has been chosen to command a year-long Mars simulation mission (02:59), while President Trump says U.S. forces have sunk a third suspected drug boat off Venezuela (14:16). The Army tightens grooming standards and hairstyles under new orders, sparking debate among soldiers (19:19). We also rewind to the Battle of Glorieta Pass in 1862, often called the “Gettysburg of the West” (29:09) and dive into Operation Ivy Bells, the top-secret submarine mission that ran from 1970 to 1981 (35:16). A mix of modern headlines, battlefield history, and Cold War secrets—don’t miss it! https://lateforchangeover.com/

🔥 From 9/11 Memories to Space Aging & Secret WWII Attacks!

This week the Late Crew dives into pivotal moments past and present: Americans recall “Where were you on 9-11?” (03:18), scientists reveal how space travel accelerates cellular aging (12:30), U.S. forces unleash a lethal airstrike on a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean (18:14), the legendary Harlem Hellfighters finally receive the Congressional Gold Medal for their courage in WWI (26:09) and a forgotten WWII chapter—when Japan bombed the U.S. mainland on September 9th, 1942 (30:26). History, science, and military power collide in this fast-paced briefing! https://lateforchangeover.com/

🚀 Space Command Shake-Up, Artemis Moon Prep, and WWII’s End Remembered | Military News Roundup

This week’s military and history roundup is packed with major headlines: President Trump reverses Biden’s call by directing U.S. Space Command’s move to Huntsville, Alabama (06:49). Military helicopters in Colorado are training for a critical mission — helping NASA’s Artemis astronauts return safely from the Moon (17:56). The Air Force announces funeral honors for Ashli Babbitt (24:19). National Geographic gears up for a high-octane “Top Gun” series (34:30). And on this day in history — September 2, 1945, Japan surrendered aboard the USS Missouri, officially ending World War II (42:23). From space to history, and everything in between, we’ve got the stories you don’t want to miss. https://lateforchangeover.com/

💥 Veterans Busted, Ghost Ships, WWII Ace, & the Missile That Shook the World 🌍

Today’s lineup is wild: Feds say a group of veterans swiped over $150K from an Air Force base’s sports program in Florida (06:57). The Pentagon just showed off a warship with ZERO crew — a real ghost ship sailing into the future of warfare (16:58). We also salute the last American fighter ace of WWII, who flew into history at 103 (34:16). And on this day in 1957, the Soviets dropped a bombshell — the first-ever ICBM test that proved no corner of the globe was safe (39:47). Strap in, this episode’s got scandal, innovation, heroes, and Cold War chills all in one shot! https://lateforchangeover.com/

🚀 Space Force Farewell, Sandwich Scandal & F-16 Uniforms | This Week in Military News

From Gen. Burt’s farewell reflections on the Space Force’s future to an Airman celebrating his separation with a surf session in dress blues, this week’s military headlines don’t disappoint. We cover an Air Force veteran’s bizarre felony sandwich assault case, the demotion of a 2-star general, and Congress pushing for more service dogs to support disabled veterans. Plus, Air Force Football reveals a sharp new F-16 alternate uniform, Fort Hood soldiers test out a new ID-based dining program, and we revisit the historic HMS Guerriere battle of 1812. https://lateforchangeover.com/

Space Legends, Sig M18 Scandal, and the Day the War Ended

The LATE FOR CHANGEOVER Show has been nominated for 3 awards: "Best News and Current Events Podcast", "Best Entertainment and Pop Culture Podcast" and "Air Force Podcast of the Year"!   Go to https://paradedeck.com/creator-awards/6191 and vote for us!

On today’s episode, the Late Crew talks about the passing of Apollo 13 astronaut Jim Lovell (06:28),  an Airman has been arrested for the death that prompted an Air Force-wide safety review of the Sig M18 (16:28), the Army has released a spirituality fitness guide and battle book (24:50), we play the guess the Movie E-7 game (41:46), and Japan surrenders to the Allies on 15 August 1945 (59:17). https://lateforchangeover.com/

Space Weapons, Controversy, and a Chilling Anniversary | This Week in Military & Space News

From futuristic defense to flashbacks of the past — this week’s headlines pack a punch. Lockheed Martin sets its sights on 2028 with plans to demo space-based missile interceptors, a major leap in orbital warfare (04:56). Meanwhile, a former Space Force officer once sidelined for controversial Marxism comments is now the Air Force's second-highest civilian (19:07). As the Air Force calls for service-wide M18 pistol inspections, other branches are standing by Sig Sauer (32:21). And we pause to remember the anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 — a moment that forever changed the world (43:25). https://lateforchangeover.com/

Space Wars, Silent Struggles, and a Satellite That Changed Everything

In this fast-paced roundup, we dive into a changing space frontier as Vast reveals its massive new HQ in Long Beach, racing to build the next space station before the ISS retires (11:20). Meanwhile, a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot breaks her silence about a mysterious illness that followed her historic flight career (19:10). On the ground, a hidden crisis is brewing—advocates say gambling addiction is quietly taking hold in the military ranks (38:51). And finally, we mark 52 years since the launch of Landsat 1, the groundbreaking satellite that began our long journey of watching Earth from above (53:53). From orbit to inner battles, this one’s got layers. https://lateforchangeover.com/

🚀 NASA Shake-Up💪Fitness Overhaul🦊Plastic Coyotes✈️Sky Art Scandal💥Port Chicago— Military Madness You Missed This Week!

Today the Late Crew discusses how lawmakers are still talking about moving NASA HQ from DC to the Space Coast (11:46), Air Force rolls out age- and sex-neutral fitness test for EOD techs (19:35), the Army deploys plastic coyotes attached to mini four-wheelers (36:43), Coast Guard aircrew awarded for heroism during flooding at Camp Mystic in Texas (48:16), a Coast Guard aircrew drew remarkably detailed genitals in the sky (52:07), and the Port Chicago Naval Magazine explosion on 17 July 1944 (01:00:48). https://lateforchangeover.com/

Rocket Plans Axed, Combat Zones Widen, VA Loosens Weed Rules — Plus a Wild West Battle!

Today the Late Crew talks about how the U.S. Air Force halts plan for rocket landing pads on remote Pacific atoll amid environmental backlash (14:19), Army authorizes combat patches for soldiers in parts of Africa, the Middle East  (27:03), and The Battle of Summit Springs on 11 July 1869 (01:14:14). https://lateforchangeover.com/

Meteor Hits Georgia Home, Air Force Shakeup, Military E-Bikes & Forgotten Korean War Battles

Today the Late Crew talks about:  A rare daytime meteor fireball streaks across Georgia skies—bright enough to be seen from space—and may have crashed through a house, shocking scientists and residents alike (03:36). A bold proposal suggests the U.S. Air Force must split into four distinct services to meet modern warfare demands—what would that even look like? (10:49). We explore how electric bikes are quietly revolutionizing military logistics and special operations with stealth, speed, and sustainability (28:51). In literature, we review The Frozen Hours by Jeff Shaara, a gripping novel recounting the brutal battle of Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War (41:48). Finally, we honor the Battle of Osan on July 5, 1950—the first U.S. ground engagement of the Korean War—where outgunned American troops faced overwhelming North Korean forces (51:00).

https://lateforchangeover.com/

MOP: the bunker-buster baddie/Israel takes out Maverick and Iceman/the Battle of Okinawa

Today the Late Crew talks about the bunker-buster bombs used on Iran’s Fordo nuclear facility (13:58), how Israel wiped out Iranian F-14 Tomcats on the airstrip (20:37), and the Battle of Okinawa ends on 22 Jun 1945 (28:40).

Army Posts renamed again/big tech Lt Colonels/8th AF Normandy memorial/Military draft round 3 and 4/first confirmed F-4 kill

Today the Late Crew talks about how President Trump reverts 7 Army bases to former names with new honorees (08:36), the Army is bringing in big tech executives as lieutenant colonels (17:29),  a new Normandy Memorial honors the Eighth Air Force (29:39), we go through rounds 3 and 4 of the US Military draft (37:54), and we review the history of the first confirmed air-to-air kill by an F-4 Phantom II on 17 June 1965 (59:44). https://lateforchangeover.com/

3.8% pay raise for troops, Air Force relaxation cubes, Battle of Takur Ghar controversy, the US Military draft, Marines land at Gitmo

Today the Late Crew talks about House GOP appropriators propose 3.8% pay raise for troops (02:53), Air Force spends millions on relaxation cubes that may prove worth it (09:51), Battle of Takur Ghar Controversy Continues (24:25), the U.S. Military Draft (34:11), the Marines land at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba on 10 June 1868 (52:50). https://lateforchangeover.com/

Astronaut HOF/Less PCS/Navy ends cat testing/'Hotlips' passes at 87/America's first spacewalker

Today the Late Crew discusses the Astronaut Hall of Fame (07:02), how the Pentagon wants troops to change duty stations less often (20:36), the Navy is ending experiments using cats and dogs as test subjects (31:55), the passing of Loretta Swit and our favorite M.A.S.H. moments (41:00),  and Ed White becomes the first American to walk in space on 3 Jun (49:43).

Space sponsorship, tax-free bonuses, nuclear artillery, Arlington horses return, F4 first flight

Today the Late Crew talks about Space sponsorships may be the next frontier for revenue generation (04:53), a bipartisan bill would make military bonuses tax-free (21:21), the time when the Army tried out nuclear artillery (29:52), how horses are returning to Arlington Cemetery (41:04), and the maiden flight of the F-4 Phantom on 27 May 1958 (52:35). https://lateforchangeover.com/

SatVu’s thermal imaging satellite | false P.O.W. benefits | Army bans cursing | ‘Rambo’ origin movie | Hamburger Hill

Today the Late Crew talks about SatVu’s thermal imaging satellite (06:01), VA’s growing roll of veterans getting POW benefits (13:01), Army battalion bans use of profanity (27:12), they’re making a ‘Rambo’ origin movie (37:17), and The Battle of Hamburger Hill ends on 20 May 1969 (42:40).

Speeder bike, Kosmos 482, Americans imprisoned in Venezuela, Pararescue dog, war with Mexico on 13 May 1846.

Today the Late Crew talks about a real-life speeder bike (04:55), how Kosmos 482 crashes to Earth after 53 years in orbit (16:05), Americans being held in Venezuelan prisons (22:47), the military’s only search and rescue dog has retired (33:36), and when Congress voted to declare war with Mexico on 13 May 1846 (43:46).

https://lateforchangeover.com/

TAP tips, F-15EXs to MI ANG, diff pay court case, Space Force Spec Ops

Today the Late Crew talks about our travels around the globe (02:50), things that we never learned from TAP (24:46), Selfridge ANG Base receives F-15EX Eagle II fighters (38:14), Supreme Court differential pay case (43:57), the Space Force will get its own special operations element (54:15), and the maiden flight of the P-47 Thunderbolt 06 May 1941 (1:06:00).

NASA's Dragonfly nuclear-powered helicopter, Army fitness test goes ‘sex-neutral’, Air Force pilots get a new way to pee, Guinness World Record for bomb suit run

Today the Late Crew discusses NASA's Dragonfly nuclear-powered rotorcraft (11:07),  the New Army fitness test goes ‘sex-neutral’ for combat jobs (23:09), how Air Force pilots have a new way to pee at 30,000 feet (38:54),  an Army captain sets a Guinness World Record for a bomb suit run (48:40), and George Washington is sworn in as the 1st US President on 30 April 1789 (54:02).

Guess the auction price or pick the highest rated Space movie. Then decide if April is cursed.

Join us to play the Military Movie Props Auction game and the Space Movie ratings game.  Also, is the month of April cursed or is it just coincidence that so many terrible events have occurred during the 4th month of the year?  Mr. History lays out the case.

#LateForChangeover #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranVoices #LFC #LateforChangeover #maverick #auction #movierating #april #spacemovies

Chinese Air Taxi, Blue Origin, SpaceX and ULA contracts, Amazon’s Project Kuiper, Ronin the mine detector rat

Today the Late Crew discusses the first Chinese Air Taxi (09:25),  the U.S. Space Force awards $13.7 billion to Blue Origin, SpaceX and ULA (13:15), Amazon’s Project Kuiper set to challenge SpaceX’s Starlink (22:19), a Hero rat sets Guinness World Record for detecting landmines (33:45), and Gen Robert E. Lee surrenders at Appomattox on 9 April 1865 (46:25).

Air Force CMSgt (Ret) Michelle "Taz" Zayatz

My guest today is Air Force Chief Master Sergeant (Retired) Michelle “Taz” Zayatz.  Michelle grew up in Pittsfield, MA and graduated from Taconic High School.  In 1982 she joined the Air Force with an Air Force Specialty Code of 276 Aerospace Control and Warning System.  Her first assignment was to the 667th Air Control and Warning Squadron at Hofn Air Station, Iceland in 1982.  After completing that remote tour she was assigned to the 2nd Communications Squadron at Buckley Air National Guard base in Colorado.  During this assignment, she met and married her husband, Allen.  In 1986, Michelle separated from Active Duty and accompanied her husband as he finished his Active Duty career in the Air Force.  Throughout their subsequent PCS moves, she continued her career by joining the Air National Guard in MS, NY and CO.  In 1998, she transferred from the COANG to the Air Force Reserves and became a founding member of the 8th Space Warning Squadron at Buckley AFB.  In 2006, Michelle moved to the 310th Space Group at Schriever AFB.  In 2007, she requested to be reassigned to stand up the new 310th Mission Support Group in Denver.  Chief Zayatz retired in 2011.

Boeing's Starliner may fly again, BAH "Brilliant Swarms", "Hegseth bodyguards", Ranger school new fit test, creation of the Air Force Academy

Today the Late Crew discusses how Boeing's Starliner may fly again (04:47), Booz Allen unveils ‘Brilliant Swarms’ satellite concept for missile defense (12:05), those ‘Hegseth bodyguards’ are actually there for the ‘Doomsday’ plane (22:52), how Ranger School is scrapping traditional pushups and situps for functional fitness test (29:05), a proposal to tie soldiers’ promotions more to job proficiency (38:44), and the creation of the Air Force Academy on 1 April 1954 (50:59).

Astronaut Paychecks, Beamed Power, and the $20B Jet Deal

Today the Late Crew talks about how much the returning astronauts will get paid (03:50), Star Catcher sends electricity across an NFL football field in key space power-beaming test (16:23),  Boeing awarded $20B to build the F-47 (26:20), the Army wants to make it easier to call Lyft and Uber on base (38:09), and the end of the Battle of Iwo Jima on 25 Mar 1945 (58:43).

SpaceX Splashdown, Cemetery Scrubs, and Miss USA Reports for Duty

In this week’s slightly-later-than-scheduled formation, the Late Crew breaks down the SpaceX Crew-9 Dragon’s return to Earth—and yes, we’re still calling it one of the coolest ways to clock out (03:54). We dive into the latest drama in Space Force news as Congress dusts off the idea of a Space National Guard, proving that bipartisanship is still possible—at least in orbit (14:39).

Then, we get into the bizarre decision to strip race and gender references from Arlington’s cemetery website—because apparently, whitewashing history is still a thing in 2025 (28:31). Miss USA and Army 1st Lt. Alma Cooper gives us some actual hope, after inspiring 4,000+ California students with a blend of pageantry, purpose, and boots-on-the-ground badassery (47:38). And finally, we rewind to the dark origin of the War Relocation Authority, created on March 18, 1942—because not all history deserves a “like” (54:27).

Whether you're here for space podcasts, news for vets, or just vibing with one of the best space podcasts led by actual Air Force and Space Force veterans, this one checks all the boxes.

Sideways Moon Landings & Side-Eye from a Chief

This week, the crew is joined by retired Air Force CMSgt Michelle Zayatz, who immediately upgrades the brainpower and sarcasm levels in the room. First up, Butch and Suni return from the ISS like the seasoned astronauts they are—unflinching, underslept, and probably annoyed at Houston’s playlist (27:04). Then we cover the Intuitive Machines moon lander, which decided the best place to nap was sideways on the lunar south pole—SpaceX, take notes? (36:53)

Things get spicy when two active-duty soldiers and an Army vet are indicted for allegedly passing secrets to China (43:21)—not exactly the space force podcast content we wanted, but definitely the News for Vets you need. We also break down why the Army is losing nearly a quarter of its Soldiers in the first two years, and no, it’s not because they forgot where they parked (54:39). Finally, we salute CMSgt Richard Etchberger—who turned a classified mission into a Medal of Honor moment on March 11, 1968 (1:08:38). This guy was the real deal.

If you're here for space podcasts, weird moon landings, and Air Force veterans roasting both Congress and the cosmos, you’ve found the best podcast about space (according to our moms and a few retired colonels).

Boots, Bismarck, and Blazing Blunts with Rogan (Mar 5 2025)

Strap in, butterbars and space nerds—this week’s Late For Changeover is your rocket-fueled ride through the week’s weirdest, wildest, and most WTF headlines. The crew dissects Elon Musk’s latest philosophical smoke session on the Joe Rogan Experience, then launches into how the Blue Ghost moon lander pulled off a lunar touchdown worthy of a slow clap from Neil Armstrong’s ghost.

But wait—there’s more! The Air Force Academy gets caught red-handed (again) in a cheating scandal that would make your squadron commander cry. Meanwhile, West Point’s favorite repeat offender is back in hot water (for the third time), and the Supreme Court continues its streak of ghosting military malpractice cases. To top it all off, we get into the Blue Origin all-woman space flight—aka, the future of space travel finally arriving in boots and eyeliner—and a look back at the brutal brilliance of the Battle of the Bismarck Sea. It’s a full stack of orbital chaos, legal limbo, and historic dogfights—with just the right amount of snark.

Chairman Cain and the Case of the Soggy Kentucky 296 (Feb 26 25)

Buckle up, buttercup—this week the Late Crew takes a sarcastic stroll through the Pentagon's most recent "great ideas" and military headlines you won’t hear on your average space podcast or NPR snoozefest. First up: meet Lt Gen Dan "No Relation to Dean" Cain, a top contender for Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, whose name sounds like he was born to kick doors in. Then it’s a quick dip into the soggy heroics of the Kentucky National Guard, who airlifted nearly 300 folks out of a flood with the calm of seasoned pros and the urgency of a Friday liberty call.

The gang also unpacks why troops bringing families to South Korea are getting a longer stay (guess who’s not thrilled?), plus why Trump’s still beefing with Boeing over Air Force One like it’s a particularly petty divorce. Finally, we rewind to the USS Monitor’s Civil War commissioning—because nothing says “military innovation” like an ironclad that looked like a floating hatbox. It's all here: leadership drama, heroic lift-offs (sadly, not SpaceX), and enough insider banter to qualify as unofficial News for Vets.

Artemis, Alaska, and the Army’s Missing Lunch Money (Feb 19 25)

This week on Late For Changeover, we break down why the current Artemis 3 moon landing plan is starting to look like a NASA-powered gamble with a lunar jackpot—or a cosmic faceplant. From moon boots to frostbite, we then head to Alaska where military rescue teams spent January in full chaos mode, proving once again that “no-fail mission” is code for “hope your snowmobile starts.”

Meanwhile, the Army swipes $151 million in BAS funds from soldiers and doesn’t even use it for food. (That’s right—less chow, same PT standards.) Over in the Navy, SEALs continue training in some of the worst water this side of a Taco Bell bathroom, and we finish strong with a deep dive into the start of the Battle of Iwo Jima—because no episode’s complete without a nod to gritty, boots-on-the-ground history. Whether you’re into space risk, rescue ops, or just military bureaucracy gone wild, this one’s for you. It’s a space podcast, a News for Vets roundup, and your favorite irreverent briefing all rolled into one.

Super Bowl, Super Meds, and the Return of Fort Bragg (Feb 12 25)

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew asks the hard-hitting question: can an Army First Sergeant throw a Super Bowl party in a war zone and still make formation the next morning? (Spoiler: probably, but you’ll regret asking.) We then pivot to Trump’s take on the Iron Dome—because nothing says “strategic defense” like naming it after a Marvel sequel—and dig into the VA’s ongoing love affair with handing out pills like it's a post-deployment candy buffet.

The episode takes a darker turn as we look at the real cost of overmedication for veterans, with a disturbing deep dive into the VA’s prescription of opioids and benzos—and the higher mortality rates that come with it. On a brighter note (kinda), Fort Bragg is back in the headlines, and we revisit Operation Homecoming, the 1973 POW return that had more feels than a reunion episode of Band of Brothers. If you're into News for Vets, military chaos, and darkly funny takes on defense policy, consider this your weekly dose of unfiltered truth (hold the benzos).

Deportation Flights & the Pentagon’s PowerPoint Purge (Feb 5 25)

This week, the Late Crew takes off with the Air Force’s latest adventure: deportation flights featuring onboard Ravens—yes, actual Air Marshals with attitude, not Edgar Allan Poe’s spirit animals. Then it’s on to the new dress and grooming standards, where we try to figure out if the Air Force is going for “warfighter chic” or just slowly turning into a JROTC fashion blog.

The Pentagon decides it's done with “Identity Months,” which probably means the morale PowerPoints just got shorter, and we check out the Government Travel Card audit—aka, who’s been buying sushi and spa days on Uncle Sam’s dime. Plus, we go full Price Is Right with the Military Auction Game, and wrap things up with a dive into the Yalta Conference, where world leaders divided the globe like a Risk board. Whether you're here for the hot takes or the historical hot messes, this is your one-stop News for Vets shop—minus the SpaceX updates (this time).

When the Air Force Let a Teen Steal a Jet (Sorta) Jan 29 25

Buckle your harness and cue the ‘80s rock anthems—the Late Crew is firing up the VHS player to relive Iron Eagle (1986), the movie that dared to ask: “What if a teenager stole a fighter jet and the Air Force just… rolled with it?” It’s a full-throttle breakdown of this Cold War fever dream, complete with impossibly clean flight suits, cassette-tape mission planning, and enough plot holes to fit a C-130 through.

We roast the uniforms, salute the F-16 dogfights, and ask the real questions—like how did this Top Gun knockoff become low-key holy scripture for a generation of future Space Force recruits? Whether you’re a diehard fan of ‘80s military flicks or just in it for the unauthorized international incidents, this episode has all the laugh-out-loud breakdowns and salty insights you’d expect from a crew of veteran misfits. Welcome to your new favorite space force podcast that has nothing to do with space—but everything to do with the vibe.

Paychecks, Power Moves, and Petty Naval Flags (Jan 22 25)

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew dives helmet-first into Trump’s latest military move—tapping a former Space Force officer to be the next Air Force Undersecretary. That’s right: from orbit to office politics. Is this the start of a galactic takeover or just another “space guy” trying to get a better parking spot at the Pentagon? Either way, it’s one giant leap for space force podcast content.

Then we tackle the eternal Marine Corps debate—beards or bust? (Spoiler: it's still bust.) We also break down a new report claiming military pay actually stacks up against civilian gigs (cue laughter from junior enlisted), and finally, we raise the metaphorical “Cuckold Flag” and sail into the weirdest corner of military history. It’s policy, paychecks, and petty symbolism—served up with sarcasm, snark, and a side of News for Vets.

Inaugurations, Inspections, and iPods (Jan 15 25)

The Late Crew is back and launching straight into orbit—politically speaking—as the Space Force gets a front-row seat at the 60th presidential inauguration. Are they guarding satellites or just vibing in formation? Either way, it's another win for space force podcast material. Then we pivot to the Air Force’s latest idea: more inspections! Because nothing boosts morale like another surprise visit from the checklist mafia.

Meanwhile, the Army somehow hits 30,000 recruits already this year (did someone finally update the recruiting posters?), and we round things out with a nostalgic dive into the music that defined the Global War on Terror. From barracks iPods to convoy playlists, we crank the volume on the tracks that carried a generation through deployments and dumb decisions. It's patriotic chaos, powered by caffeine, dark humor, and just enough insight to get flagged by your old First Sergeant.

New Year, New Debris, Same Old Chaos (Jan 8 25)

New year, same chaos. The Late Crew kicks off 2025 by teeing off on the new TGL golf competition—because what’s more futuristic than glow-in-the-dark golf with pro athletes and giant screens? Then it’s a salute to a true badass: a WWII Army nurse who just turned 105 and could probably still outpace your morning PT.

We also check in with the Space Force, who’ve fallen head-over-moon for their new fitness watch (because nothing says warfighter readiness like counting your orbital steps). Plus, there’s a psychedelic therapy turf war brewing in Colorado, and in a plot twist straight out of a space news podcast, a chunk of space debris crashes down in Kenya—missing a village but definitely hitting our radar. It’s News for Vets with a cosmic twist and just the right amount of side-eye.

Troops in Space, Girls in the Ranks, and Nimitz in Charge (Dec 18 24)

This week, the Late Crew launches straight into the galaxy-brained idea from Trump’s NASA pick: boots on the Moon, Mars, or wherever the next Space McDonald’s opens. Yep, according to him, it’s only a matter of time before the military starts posting troops in orbit—because if there's one thing the Space Force needs, it's mandatory mustache regs in zero gravity. Speaking of futures in uniform, the DoD reports most girls don’t think they’d succeed in the military—so naturally, the crew digs into what’s broken, what’s improving, and who’s really still gatekeeping the chow hall.

Then it’s a toast to progress as the Air Force names its first female SERE specialist as Chief Master Sergeant (about damn time), and the Space Force drops the hottest new concept in military onboarding: its very own boot camp. Rounding out the ep is a deep-cut history lesson from 1941, when Admiral Nimitz took command of the Pacific Fleet and basically told the Japanese Navy to hold his beer. It's offbeat, off-script, and unapologetically aimed at space force veterans, Air Force vets, and anyone who prefers their military news with a side of sarcasm.

Flying Taxis, Fat Standards & Pay Raises (Dec 11 25)

This week, the Late Crew is all gas, no brake checks, starting with a flying taxi that spins, strafes, and probably violates several laws of physics thanks to a wild new propulsion system. It's basically the lovechild of a drone and a sci-fi fever dream, and we are here for it. Next up: junior enlisted troops are finally getting a serious pay raise in 2025—because nothing says “we see you” like slightly more money for ramen and rent.

Then it’s on to some eyebrow-raising Navy news: physically fit sailors might get a pass on body comp standards soon (sorry, tape test fans). We also tip our caps to the new Jeep Wrangler that throws it back to the 1941 Willys MB—because nothing sells better than nostalgia in camo. And finally, we hop in the time machine for a quick spin through the 1898 Treaty of Paris, which wrapped up the Spanish-American War and handed the U.S. some serious global real estate. It’s military tradition, tech innovation, and tactical sarcasm—aka your go-to space force podcast that occasionally talks about, but always salutes, News for Vets.

Tactical Turkeys and the Police Movie Showdown (Dec 4 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew welcomes former Marine, retired police sergeant, and all-around badass Graham Dunne—just in time to debate the only question that truly divides America: what’s the best Thanksgiving side dish? (Spoiler: someone’s wrong, and it’s probably you.) Graham dishes on his time behind the badge, the true-life chaos that inspired his book The Jagged Blue Line, and how he's now helping folks sharpen their skills over at RagnarTactical.com.

Naturally, we couldn’t let a cop-turned-author walk away without a challenge, so we throw Graham into the gauntlet with the Police Movie Game—because nothing says “thank you for your service” like testing your action flick IQ. It’s one part News for Vets, one part tactical wisdom, and all the irreverent fun you expect from the military-veteran corner of the internet. This might not be your typical space force podcast, but if you’re into real stories, sharp takes, and dark humor served with stuffing, you’re in the right place.

Smells Like Space, Tastes Like Thanksgiving (Nov 27 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew tackles the usual: space smells, stolen weapons, and side dishes that could start a war. We kick off with NASA tracking an asteroid roughly the size of your average football field—because apparently Earth wasn’t stressed enough already. Then we pivot to the ISS, where astronauts caught a whiff of something weird coming from a Russian spacecraft. Spoiler: it wasn’t vodka or victory.

Back on Earth, the Army lost 31 pistols and is now offering $15K for help finding them (because nothing says “secure facility” like a Craigslist bounty), and a former Navy officer got caught stealing $850K in military gear. We also settle one of the most heated debates in modern history: What’s the ultimate Thanksgiving side dish? Finally, we serve up a look at three historic battles fought on Turkey Day—because nothing says “gratitude” like musket fire. It’s chaotic, it’s irreverent, and it’s the only space news podcast where tactical analysis meets cranberry sauce. Welcome to the best kind of News for Vets.

The Pentagon Can’t Count and Robots Smell Bombs (Nov 20 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we’re talking robot arms in space, sniffing out nukes, and the Pentagon’s legendary streak of failing audits like it’s going for gold in financial incompetence. Northrop Grumman is gearing up to launch a satellite repair robot with actual arms in 2026—so basically WALL-E meets Top Secret Clearance. Meanwhile, the Space Force has deployed a robot that can literally smell nuclear material. We’re not saying Skynet is real… but maybe keep an eye on your Roomba.

We also salute a badass Air Force captain who just became the first woman in service history to receive the Silver Star, then roast the Pentagon for failing its seventh audit in a row. (Honestly, at this point, we’re just impressed by the consistency.) And to wrap it all up, we throw it back to 1863 with President Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address—because even after 160 years, you can’t beat brevity, battlefield speeches, and four score-level shade. This is the space force podcast that blends tactical tech, historical hot takes, and News for Vets you actually want to hear.

Operation What Now? Space Politics and Underwater Weirdness (Nov 13 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we ask the big question: is Boeing ghosting the space game? With rumors of them ditching their space division, we break down what that means for the future of aerospace, Starliner, and corporate “we tried” energy. Then we dive into what a second Trump administration might do for NASA, and whether Space National Guard might finally become a real patch you can wear while playing Halo in uniform. Spoiler: the future’s looking… weird.

Colorado might lose U.S. Space Command, and no one’s happy—except maybe Alabama. Plus, a Navy Rear Admiral is set to testify about underwater UFOs, which is probably the most 2025 sentence ever spoken. We also play the Military Operation Name Game (because someone really did greenlight “Operation Urgent Fury”), and close with a salute to the first woman to fly a U.S. combat mission, back on November 15, 1994. If you like your space podcasts with a side of conspiracy, chaos, and News for Vets, welcome aboard.

$150K for Soap? Must Be Space-Grade (Nov 6 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, the VA swears it’s not $15 billion in the hole—turns out someone can actually read a spreadsheet. Meanwhile, a VA employee leaves a spicy voicemail for a veteran that kicks off an investigation faster than a barracks inspection on payday. Over in Defense Department drama: Boeing bills the Air Force $150K for soap dispensers, which raises the obvious question—was the soap made of moon rocks?

Then we break down the alleged mid-air elbow drop from a CENTCOM commander to an unsuspecting airman (no word yet on if it was a tactical shove), and the Air Force Academy gets pranked by West Point—because inter-service trolling is eternal. We also test our commander-in-chief knowledge in a Presidents + Military quiz (spoiler: we make Lincoln proud), and rewind to 1777 when the Articles of Confederation got slapped together like a first-draft op order. It’s bureaucracy, brawls, budget blunders, and News for Vets—served with irreverence and just enough accuracy to get flagged by your old squad leader.

ISS Evac Drills, F-16 Fails & the Ghosts of Black Week (Oct 30 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew breaks down the high-stakes moment astronauts on the ISS prepped for an emergency evac—because nothing says “happy orbiting” like the phrase abandon ship. We also salute a Marine in the Philippines who took “flexing on the water” to a new level by sinking a boat with a Stinger missile—which is definitely not what that thing was designed for, but hey, it worked.

Meanwhile, the Air Force racks up a $30 million oops after a parked F-16 ends up looking like it lost a bar fight, we swap spooky military ghost stories just in time for your next barracks campfire, and we dig into the brutal WWII saga of B-29 “Black Week” in October 1943. It’s a full-spectrum ride: orbital drama, missile mayhem, financial disasters, flying ghosts, and war history—aka your one-stop shop for space news podcast vibes and News for Vets with way more edge than NPR could handle.

S4E10 Police Sergeant Graham Dunne

I’m joined today by Former Marine Corporal and retired Police Sergeant Graham Dunne.  Graham was born in Liverpool, England.  His family immigrated to the U.S. when he was 10.  He graduated from high school in Colorado in 1987.  After a few semesters in college, he decided to join the Marines reserve as an MOS 0844 Field Artillery Fire Control.  His first assignment was to the 5th Battalion, 14th Marines in Colorado.  He was also hired as a Deputy Sheriff.  After 18 months, he applied and was accepted into the Police Department in 1994.  Graham retired 25 years later in 2019.  He has written a book about his Police experiences called “The Jagged Blue Line”, and he currently owns and operates RagnarTactical.com. 

For Graham’s book, “The Jagged Blue Line”, go to https://thejaggedblueline.com/. If you want to improve your shooting skills, please visit Graham’s website at https://ragnartactical.com/.

Miss America Meets a Military Dog and the Brig Gets a Marine (Oct 16 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we kick things off on a somber note as Jake honors the life of his uncle, Marine Major Benjamin Franklin Collins III—a true warfighter and American original. From there, it’s back to the regularly scheduled chaos: SpaceX flexes its sci-fi muscles by catching its Starship booster with giant metal chopsticks. Yes, really. Elon’s out here playing orbital Jenga, and we are so here for it.

Meanwhile, the Navy launches an investigation into welds that apparently didn’t hold up to the "boat floats, don’t sink" standard, a Marine recruiter gets brig time (and no, it’s not for bad PowerPoint slides), and Miss America suits up in a bite sleeve to experience military working dog training firsthand. We close with a look back at the 1983 Marine barracks bombing in Lebanon—one of the deadliest days in Corps history. It’s space tech, sea trials, bite training, and battlefield memories—served with a shot of dark humor and zero apologies. This is your go-to space news podcast for real talk and News for Vets who know the difference between a good weld and government optimism.

Hallucinogens, Heroics & Military Humor We’ll Deny Later (Oct 9 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, the FAA tells SpaceX to cool its jets—literally—with permission to launch just one Falcon 9. (Somewhere, Elon’s eye is twitching.) Then it’s off to Schriever Space Force Base, where troops are bringing their own Tupperware because apparently the chow hall missed the memo about providing food and the things to eat it with. Peak Space Force news, folks.

We also get into the absolute madness faced by Vietnam vets who were unknowingly dosed with nerve agents and hallucinogens (because why not test that on your own people?) and are still fighting for their back pay. Then, it’s time for some of the finest military dark humor you probably shouldn’t laugh at—but absolutely will. And finally, we salute Alvin York, the WWI legend who went full solo-op and wiped out a German machine gun battalion on October 8, 1918. It's war stories, bad decisions, bureaucratic brilliance, and a whole lot of News for Vets—served with sarcasm and zero filter.

Falcon 9 Takes Off, F-16 Gets Cut Off (Oct 2 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew breaks down a SpaceX milestone as Falcon 9 launches a new ISS crew from SLC-40—the first crewed liftoff from that pad, and a big win for Elon’s space résumé (as if he needed another). Meanwhile, a Russian fighter decides to cosplay as Maverick and cuts off an F-16 mid-NORAD intercept—because what’s international diplomacy without a little aerial road rage?

Back on Earth, the Marine Corps is overhauling its marksmanship training, likely causing every range NCO in the Corps to scream into a sandbag. We also dive into how an Air Force special ops squadron managed to damage three Ospreys in five days—yes, three. Then we head down the history rabbit hole with a nod to the USS Nautilus, the Navy’s first nuclear sub, and the activation of the 1st Cavalry Air Mobile in Vietnam. Whether you’re into space podcasts, tactical trainwrecks, or just excellent News for Vets, this episode’s got the lift, the drift, and a whole lot of dark humor in between.

Polaris Dawn, North Korea, and the Art of the WTF (Sept 25 24)

Strap in, spacers and salty vets—Late For Changeover is back with another orbital barrage of military mayhem and cosmic WTF moments. First up, the Polaris Dawn crew makes history (and zero headlines, apparently) with the first non-government spacewalk. No bureaucrats, no red tape, just pure astronaut swagger—and yeah, there's a Star Wars music video beamed from space. Eat your heart out, YouTube.

Then we talk military logistics gone sci-fi: the U.S. is tossing money at reentry vehicles to yeet cargo from orbit to Earth like it’s Call of Duty: Supply Drop Edition. Meanwhile, one soldier deserts to North Korea, gets sentenced, and is instantly released—proving once again that reality outpaces satire. Bonus rants include: protein shakes pulled from military base GNCs for hemp seeds (truly the weed-iest scandal ever), and a nod to Operation Magic Carpet, when WWII troops got the most chaotic Uber ride home in history.

Whether you're a space nerd, a veteran with a dark sense of humor, or just here for the chaos, this is the best space podcast your recruiter warned you about.

Starliner Lands, Subs Go Coed, and Drones Cost a Billion—Just Another Tuesday (Sept 11 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew asks the question every American over 30 has a weirdly vivid answer to: “Where were you on 9/11?”—and somehow, they still make it funny without getting court-martialed. From there, we coast into the stratosphere with Boeing’s Starliner landing safely in New Mexico, marking another win for astronaut news and anyone still rooting for Team Not-Crash-And-Burn.

Meanwhile, back on Earth: the VA might fumble vets’ benefits checks (again), the Army just dropped a cool billion on Switchblade drones (aka portable chaos), and the Navy’s hitting its recruiting goals thanks to some shockingly clever programs. Also—history break! We time-travel to 1813 for the Battle of Lake Erie, where ships were wooden, cannons were loud, and tactical drama was real. Oh, and the Navy’s about to deploy its first fully coed submarine crew. Let’s see how long it takes for that to become a Netflix docuseries.

It’s military culture meets space travel podcast meets “Did they really just say that?”—and it’s still somehow the best podcast about space and veterans you’re not listening to yet.

Starliner’s Spooky Sounds & Tinker’s New Motto Gets Roasted (Sept 4 24)

On this episode of Late For Changeover, the crew covers everything from haunted spacecraft to government accounting wizardry. First up: Boeing’s Starliner is scheduled to head back from the ISS—but not before NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore hears a “strange noise” on board. Cue the horror movie soundtrack. Is it a loose bolt, a pissed-off alien, or just Tuesday? Either way, if you like your astronaut news with a side of paranoia, this one’s for you.

Meanwhile, over in Space Force land, the 310th Space Wing at Schriever is prepping for inactivation—because nothing says “strategic realignment” like dissolving an entire wing. We also roast Tinker Air Force Base’s new motto (spoiler: the troops already hate it), rage about 100,000 veterans being told to repay bonuses decades later, and time-jump to the Revolutionary War when the American flag first hit the battlefield. Patriotism, bureaucracy, sarcasm—it’s all here. If you’re into space podcasts with military roots, spicy history, and News for Vets, this one’s locked and loaded.

Dragon Uber for Astronauts & Trump’s Galactic Draft (Aug 28 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, Boeing astronauts find out the hard way that their snazzy new spacesuits are basically useless aboard SpaceX vehicles—because who doesn’t love an inter-agency wardrobe malfunction? Now they’re catching a ride home on a SpaceX Dragon... in 2025. If you're into SpaceX news or space podcasts that point out the absurdity of space travel logistics, buckle up.

We also dig into Trump’s latest campaign gem: a promised Space National Guard (yes, really), plus a salute to Gary Sinise—aka America’s favorite amputee lieutenant—for three decades of Forrest Gump and tireless support for veterans. Then we hit the way-back machine for Operation Argus, where the U.S. nuked space before it was cool. It’s astronaut podcast meets space force podcast meets “What the hell are we doing up there?”—and it's all brought to you by your favorite News for Vets misfits.

From Airshow Chaos to Astronaut Carnal Curiosity (Aug 21 24)

This week, the Late Crew turns up the heat—literally. We’re talking about the mass casualty incident at the Pikes Peak Airshow where the sun won and everyone lost. Then it’s a detour into Facebook drama (yes, the military’s favorite social media dumpster fire), before diving into the real shocker: Air Force basic trainees are now carrying rifles again. Somewhere, a crusty old chief just stood up and clapped.

We also get into electric shock therapy—but the good kind? Apparently, Army researchers think zapping your brain helps you sleep better. The episode reaches peak orbit when experts break down the odds of sex in space, which is exactly the kind of astronaut podcast content you didn’t know you needed. And for your historical side dish: a gritty throwback to the Battle of Fallen Timbers in 1794, back when fighting wasn’t air-conditioned. If you like space travel podcasts, veteran dark humor, and wondering how much weird stuff you can do in zero gravity, this one’s for you.

Gen Whiting Wants Space Lasers, and We Have Questions (Aug 14 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, Gen Whiting says it’s time to bring the heat—literally—with something called Space Fires. That’s right, the Space Force is now cooking up orbital firepower like it’s a Star Wars sequel written by defense contractors. If you’re into Space Force news or wondering what “space combat” actually means, this is your jam.

We also pour one out for Vandenberg’s Military Working Horse Program (RIP to the real neigh-neighs), unpack how a single TikTok video got an officer court-martialed (spoiler: it’s bad), and time-travel back to VJ Day—when victory parades and sailor kisses were all the rage. It’s a cosmic cocktail of military history, policy fails, and low-key space news podcast gold. Whether you’re into Podcasts about Air Force veterans or just here for the offbeat insanity, this is the best podcast about space and vets you didn't know you needed.

Starliner’s Delay & the Air Force’s New PowerPoint Series (Aug 7 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew gets Olympic-level patriotic as we spotlight military athletes repping the U.S. in the Games—because who else can throw javelins and fix a Humvee in the same day? Then we head back to orbit, where NASA may delay the Crew-9 mission while they figure out how to get the Starliner astronauts back home without duct tape and prayers. It’s a big week in the space news podcast world—because astronauts, like junior enlisted, just want a confirmed ride home.

Back on solid ground, the Air Force launches new “Foundations” courses aimed at enlisted leadership development—because PowerPoint hasn’t finished its reign of terror just yet. Finally, we reflect on two somber anniversaries: the downing of Extortion 17 in Afghanistan on August 6, 2011, and the Hiroshima bombing on August 6, 1945—two moments that shaped military history in ways we’re still reckoning with. It’s grit, grief, leadership, launch delays, and a whole lot of News for Vets with the kind of commentary you won’t find on NPR.

$180K to Re-Enlist and Balloons as WMDs (Jul 31 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we kick things off with a highly classified review of... Facebook posts. That’s right, the crew goes full open-source intel mode on recent social media shenanigans. Then we dig into something that actually matters—Space Force is throwing serious cash at retention with re-enlistment bonuses hitting $180,000. That’s a lot of coin to stay in orbit and keep your mustache regs sharp.

We also cover the latest diplomatic dumpster fire: the U.S. and South Korean defense chiefs telling North Korea to knock it off with the garbage balloon air raids. Yes, we’re at the part of 2025 where trash is a geopolitical weapon. From there, we take on a WWII slang quiz that’ll make you question if you’re a vet or just watched Band of Brothers twice, and we close by honoring the sinking of the USS Indianapolis—a tragic and heroic moment in naval history. It’s News for Vets, dark humor, and space force podcast energy all wrapped up in one glorious mess.

S4E09 Air Force MSgt (Ret) Craig Kim

I’m joined today by Air Force MSgt (Ret) Craig Kim.  Craig attended Taylor-Dewitt Middle-High School in Pierson, FL. After graduating in 1998, he spoke to an Air Force recruiter and decided to join at 17 as a 3P0X1 Security Forces. He attended Basic Training and Tech School at Lackland Air Force Base, TX. He was first assigned to the 45th Security Forces Squadron at Patrick AFB, FL. During that assignment he was deployed twice. When he returned he re-trained to Information Management and attended Tech School at Kessler AFB, MS. Upon graduation in 2002, he was assigned to Goodfellow AFB, TX. During that assignment he deployed to Jordan in 2003. In 2005, Craig’s next assignment took him to NORAD-USNORTHCOM in Building 2 at Peterson AFB, CO.  In 2008, his AFSC was consolidated and he was placed in the IT Field.  He was next assigned in 2011 to the 39th Comm Squadron at Incirlik AB, Turkey.  Upon returning in 2012, he was assigned to the 460th Space Comm Squadron at Buckley AFB, CO.  In 2017, he was promoted to MSgt. In 2018, he took his final assignment at the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Organization in Reston, VA. Craig retired from the Air Force on 31 July 2020.

PCS Pain, Dog Drama & The Space Toilet Saga (July 24 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we welcome retired Air Force Major Ana Mondragon to help us unpack another round of military madness—starting with NASA’s latest moonshot: giving astronauts the ability to drink their own pee. Science is wild, folks. Meanwhile, troops can now cash in on economic hardship for the whopping bonus of $20 a month. That’s right—two crumpled Hamiltons to offset inflation. Try not to spend it all on one energy drink.

We also break down the true cost of PCS moves (spoiler: it’s your sanity), the heartbreak of military families overseas potentially not being able to ship their dogs home (cue the rage), and we wrap with a hard-hitting look at the Battle of Fire Base Ripcord—one of Vietnam’s bloodiest, least-known showdowns. From astronaut news to bonus pay that barely buys gas, this episode delivers real talk, real history, and real reasons to laugh through the dysfunction. It’s News for Vets with a space podcast edge and zero sugarcoating.

TAP Class Is Trash and RAND Just Proved It (Jul 17 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we dig into a fresh RAND report that basically says what every salty E-4 mafia member already knew: military transition programs are out here pushing degrees when what vets really need are damn jobs. While Uncle Sam’s busy handing out pamphlets about college algebra, transitioning service members are wondering if anyone’s hiring for “Weapons System Technician with 12 years of classified experience and no LinkedIn.”

We break down how this disconnect hits Space Force veterans, Air Force vets, and anyone who's ever sat through a TAP class thinking, "This is just PowerPoint hell with snacks." It’s real talk about life after the uniform, the civilian skills gap no one wants to fix, and how the system still hasn’t caught up with the modern vet. It’s raw, it's funny, and it’s the space force podcast you didn’t know you needed in your transition toolkit. Welcome to News for Vets—with way more attitude than your VA caseworker.

ICBM Budget Blasts, Moldy Housing & Hot Dogs of Doom (Jul 10 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, the Sentinel ICBM program blows past its budget like a boot at a PX sale—up 81% and climbing. We unpack why Uncle Sam’s latest doomsday device might need a side hustle to pay for itself. Then it’s over to the Air Force, which is dangling more bonus pay like a recruiter with a new PowerPoint. (Spoiler: they still won’t tell you what your actual job is.)

Also in this week’s chaos buffet: a former Army family scores $10 million after moldy base housing wrecks their kid’s health, Joey Chestnut shows no mercy in a hot dog showdown against four soldiers at Fort Bliss, and a Guam commander turns Independence Day into a full-blown barracks block party. We round things out with the USS Thresher, a Cold War-era attack sub that launched in 1960 and tragically sank less than three years later. It’s mold, missiles, meat sweats, and military madness—aka your weekly News for Vets fix with a side of dark humor and space force podcast energy.

The Bat Jet, the Base Breach & the Big Gettysburg Throwdown (July 3 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew dives into pure orbital absurdity as ISS astronauts are told to prep a strainer—yes, a literal kitchen strainer—as a makeshift lifeboat. We also unpack how NASA is paying SpaceX $843 million to blow up the International Space Station. So basically, humanity’s greatest space achievement is getting a budget-friendly demolition courtesy of Elon’s side hustle. Welcome to the golden age of space podcasts, folks.

Back on Earth (barely), a Florida mom breaches Patrick Space Force Base with her four-year-old riding shotgun—because apparently security at launch command can be defeated by Goldfish crackers and a minivan. Plus, we salute a Marine Corps F-35 in Japan rocking a bat insignia (Gotham vibes, but with more thrust), and then get historical with the Battle of Gettysburg—because no episode is complete without a reminder that war was once fought with bayonets and terrible hygiene. It’s space news podcast meets military madness, all wrapped up in your weekly fix of News for Vets who prefer their intel with edge.

NASA Junk Hits Florida and the Navy Lowers the Bar (Jun 26 24)

NASA’s at it again—Starliner’s return is delayed (shocker), because nothing screams “confidence in space travel” like repeated rescheduling. Meanwhile, Air Combat Command airmen are staring down the barrel of mass inspections, so if you’ve got dust on your boots or attitude in your locker, now’s the time to panic. Also: the Navy is softening its stance on failed fitness tests. So, yeah—bring on the dad bods.

Then, things get spicy when a Florida family sues NASA over falling space junk (that’s one way to get on astronaut news), and we close with a double-shot of June 25th tragedy: Little Big Horn and Khobar Towers. History, heartbreak, and orbital nonsense all in one episode. If you like space podcasts with military roots, veteran grit, and just the right amount of “WTF,” this is the space news podcast you didn’t know your playlist needed.

Three Launches Enter, One Gets the Contract (Jun 19 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, it’s a full-blown orbital throwdown as three aerospace giants go head-to-head for the Pentagon’s space launch contracts. Think of it as The Bachelor, but with fewer roses and more classified payloads. Then DARPA shows up like the mad scientist it is, dropping six new VTOL drone designs that look like they were sketched during a fever dream in a Top Gun barfight.

But it’s not all rockets and rotorcraft—we also call out military transition programs for doing a C-minus job helping vets find civilian gigs (you can’t just slap “leadership skills” on a résumé and walk away, folks). Plus, we play the Space Movie Game—where the trivia is questionable and the arguments are personal—and take a stroll through the start of the War of 1812, because you can’t spell “freedom” without historical naval beef. If you like space podcasts with a side of chaos and News for Vets, you’re in the right AO.

Maui Says No, Starship Says Splash, and the Space Force Gets a Patron Saint” (Jun 12 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we’re going full throttle into the weird and wonderful world of military space drama. First up: Boeing’s Starliner crew flight test tries to remind everyone it still exists, while the SpaceX Starship booster cannonballs into the Gulf like it’s competing in a Space Olympics splash event. And Maui? They told the Space Force to take their giant telescope and kindly buzz off. Apparently paradise doesn’t need orbital surveillance.

Also on deck: AF Security Forces hit the final phase of rolling out “Model Defender” gear, and we nominate a Patron Saint for the Space Force—because every good military branch needs its own cosmic guardian (ours might have a mullet). We wrap with the Great Marianas Turkey Shoot of 1944, because nothing says “American airpower” like turning enemy squadrons into confetti. If you’re into space podcasts, Space Force news, and News for Vets served with sarcasm and speed, this is the best podcast about space you’re not listening to yet.

Helicopter Draft Picks and Space Force Power Moves (Jun 5 24)

This week, retired Brigadier General Chris Petty drops in, and things get tactical fast. We kick off with a spicy take on the Space Force proposal to convert National Guard units into active duty. Spoiler: it’s either a brilliant move or a bureaucratic headache wrapped in camouflage. If you’re into Space Force news or just wondering what the heck a “hybrid service” even is, we’ve got thoughts—and probably a few unpopular opinions.

Then we shift gears into full hanger talk as we build the “All-Military Helicopter Team.” Yes, we’re actually arguing which chopper gets the QB slot. Gen Petty rounds out the episode with a strategic deep-dive into the First Battle of the Marne—World War I’s epic “hold the line” moment that changed everything. It's history, heresy, and helmet hair—all in one episode. If you like space podcasts with a side of sarcastic military insight and News for Vets, you’re in the right AO.

The Space Force Comes to Florida, and So Do the Clay Shooters (May 29 24)

This week, the Late Crew takes aim—literally—at the Freedom Hunters clay shoot fundraiser, where shotguns meet service and good causes get loud. Then it’s time for liftoff as STARCOM officially gets the green light to set up shop on the Space Coast. That’s right—Space Force news that doesn’t involve memes or bad recruiting ads. Progress?

We also tackle the most controversial topic since chow hall pizza: military beards. A new Air Force pilot program might finally let airmen rock facial fuzz like it’s 1776 again. Then we find out just how “impenetrable” a SCIF really is (spoiler: not very), and shout out the 134th Air Refueling Wing Security Forces for playing nice with the local sheriff’s department. Finally, we time-hop to The Battle of Cantigny, where America proved in 1918 that it was more than just late to the war—it came to win. If you’re into space force podcasts with tactical insights and sarcastic commentary, this is the space news podcast you didn’t know your playlist needed.

S4E08 Air Force SMSgt (Ret) Kevin Reed

Today my guest is Air Force SMSgt (Ret) Kevin Reed.  Kevin grew up in the Los Angeles area both in Canoga Park and Thousand Oaks.  He attended Westlake High School and graduated in 1998.  After a semester at Cal State Northridge, he met with an Air Force recruiter and signed a delayed enlistment contract, and in May 1999, he attended Basic Training at Lackland AFB, TX as a 1C6 Space Operator.  He then attended Enlisted Undergraduate Space Training (EUST) at Vandenberg AFB, CA. Kevin’s first assignment was to 1st Space Operations Squadron at Schriever AFB, CO.  In May 2001, he was reassigned to Kapaun, Germany for DSP Missile Warning.  He left Germany in Aug 2002 for assignment to the 2nd Space Operations Squadron (GPS) back at Schriever AFB.  His next assignment was to the 2nd Space Warning Squadron (SBIRS) at Buckley AFB, CO.  There, he was selected to the 2006 SBIRS Guardian Challenge Team. In 2008, he was reassigned to the 533rd Training Squadron as a SBIRS System Instructor at Vandenberg AFB.  During this time, he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Liberty University.  After four years he was reassigned back to 2 SWS at Buckley AFB.  In 2014, he took an Active Guard/Reserve position with the 8th Space Warning Squadron.  In 2015, he was promoted to MSgt and earned his Master’s Degree in Space/Planetary Science from American Military University.  In 2018 Kevin was promoted to SMSgt and became the Squadron Superintendent for Det 1, 8 SWS which later reflagged as the 4th Space Warning Squadron. He went on to be selected as a Traveling Instructor for the SNCO Leadership Course for the Air Force Reserve Command in 2019. Kevin retired from the military on June 1st, 2021.

High on Altitude, Not Weed (But Maybe Soon?) May 22 24

Buckle up, buttercup—we’re launching hot takes and orbital chaos straight from your favorite space force podcast misfits. This week, Starliner’s “Crew Flight Test” pulls another disappearing act (is it a test if it never takes off?), and Inversion Space pitches the bold concept of cosmic Costco: warehouses. In. Space. Because nothing says “future” like stashing space junk like your uncle’s garage.

Meanwhile, back on Earth, the House wants to pull the plug on marijuana testing for new military recruits—finally realizing that a little weed might be less dangerous than sleep-deprived 18-year-olds with grenades. We also salute the last WWII triple ace who just punched out at 102 (we should all be so badass), and give props to the 10th Mountain Division’s newest drone-slaying aces. Yeah, the game’s changed, but the warrior spirit’s still got teeth.

Whether you're here for the space flight podcasts chaos or the News for Vets bite, this episode’s got launch delays, drone kills, and dark humor hotter than a re-entry burn.

The $414M Satellite Flex and a Sick Kid Save (May 15 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we’re unleashing the untold tales of fur missiles, base mascots, and the four-legged chaos that made life in uniform just a little less soul-crushing. From guard dogs with PTSD to Marines rescuing iguanas from airstrikes, we dig into the pet stories that didn’t make it into the official unit history.

Then it’s a hard pivot into full-on tactical geekery: Millennium Space pockets a $414 million contract to track missiles from orbit (casual flex), DARPA’s building an underwater robo-stingray named Manta Ray (of course they are), and the Navy’s tossing drones into the ocean to see what happens. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard just dropped a casual $185M in seized narcotics like it’s Spring Cleaning Week, and an Air Force pararescue team pulls off the most elite cruise ship rescue since... ever. We even dig into the SS Mayaguez incident because Cold War drama never goes out of style.

From space podcasts and Space Force news to stories that would make even a jaded vet say “WTF?”, this is your go-to space force podcast for chaos, caffeine, and camaraderie.

S4E07 Army CW3 (Ret) Jaime Hernandez

Joining me today is Army Retired CW3 Jaime Hernandez. Jaime was born and raised in Ponce, Puerto Rico and graduated from Ponce High School in 1989.  He attended Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico pursuing a degree in Accounting.  He enlisted in the Army as an 11B and went to basic training at Fort Benning, GA in 2002.  His first assignment was to B Company, 2/35 Infantry at Schofield Barracks, HI, and deployed to Afghanistan in 2004.  In 2008, he reclassified to MOS 88N Transportation and went to Fort Eustis, VA for training.  After being promoted to E-7, he again deployed to Afghanistan in 2010.  During that deployment, Jaime applied and was accepted into the Warrant Officer program.  He graduated from the Warrant Officer course in 2013 and was next assigned to the 4th ID at Fort Carson, CO.  He was next assigned to Camp Casey, South Korea in 2016 followed by an assignment to Fort Hood, TX.   He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Transportation and Logistics management from American Military University in 2018, and then deployed to the Arabic peninsula in 2019.  Jaime was promoted to CW3 and was assigned to his final duty station back at Fort Eustis.  He retired in 2022.

Starliner Stalls Again (Maybe Try Turning It Off and On?) May 8 24

Strap in for another tactical mess of military mayhem and orbital mishaps. First up: Boeing’s Starliner mission fumbles yet again, delaying its first astronaut launch because someone forgot rocket science is hard. It’s the latest saga in astronaut news that makes you wonder if anyone packed duct tape. Over in grunt country, three Space Force Guardians go full hooah and survive the Army’s Cavalry Spur Ride—because nothing says "modern warfare" like LARPing the Old West.

Meanwhile, the Navy shows up in beast mode to body Army in the annual Best Warrior Competition (cue interservice rage), and the Army opens up its first drone obstacle course—basically Ninja Warrior for killer Roombas. We wrap with a throwback to Cold War tension as Khrushchev holds U-2 pilot Gary Powers hostage and flexes on the world stage like it's 1960 (because it was).

This is the space force podcast that trades polished politics for military sarcasm, space flight podcast thrills, and News for Vets that doesn’t feel like a retirement seminar. You in or what?

Washington Took the Job—No PTO Included (May 1 24)

In this episode of Late For Changeover, we go full throttle from orbit to office hours (or lack thereof). First, SpaceX news is heating up: Starship is now flirting with in-space refueling like it’s a Tinder date with destiny—because nothing says “future of space travel” like gassing up in zero G. Meanwhile, back on Earth, a VA prosthetics chief ghosted nearly 1,000 veteran equipment orders, which is exactly the kind of bureaucratic nightmare that gets blood pressures rising at morning formation.

We’re also saluting one Air Force beast at Kirtland AFB who broke the New Mexico powerlifting record while the 4th ID told its leaders to quit texting troops after hours—because apparently, soldiers like sleep too. And in case history class was too polite, we’re reminding you that on April 30, 1789, George Washington got the worst job offer in American history and took it anyway. From Space Force news to messed-up VA moves, this is your no-filter space force podcast for the galaxy-brained and the grizzled.

Pat Tillman and the Rat-Infested DFAC (Apr 24 24)

Rocket Lab just launched a NASA solar sail into orbit—and no, it’s not a Renaissance cosplay. It’s cutting-edge space flight podcast fodder with a side of “science is wild.” Meanwhile, Barksdale Air Force Base shuts down its dining facility after rats apparently decided to reenlist. Nothing like vermin with security clearance to make you miss the MREs.

We also spotlight a soldier earning the call sign Ace of Syria after swatting six drones like they were budget mosquitoes, proving that modern warfare is one big video game with real consequences. And finally, we reflect on the legacy of Pat Tillman, who was killed in Afghanistan 20 years ago—a somber reminder of what service, sacrifice, and honor still mean. This is your gritty, hilarious, no-BS space force podcast that tackles orbital tech, base absurdities, and real-deal News for Vets—all without sounding like a Pentagon press release.

S4E06 Army MAJ (Ret) Ruslan Emelyanov

Joining me today is Army MAJ (Ret) Ruslan Emelyanov. Ruslan was born and raised in the former Soviet Union.  When he turned 18, he was conscripted into the Soviet Army in 1989 and chose to be a Paratrooper.  Over the next couple years, he accepted an invitation to attend the newly formed Russian Military Academy.  He graduated in 1995 and was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Russian Army.  He had also earned his Jumpmaster status at that time.  His first assignment was to join his new unit already fighting in the First Chechen War.  At the conclusion of the war, his unit redeployed in December 1996.  Ruslan was then reassigned to Moscow and transferred to the Military Police.  In 1998 as a Captain, he resigned his Commission and left the Russian Army. Family relatives who lived in California applied for a Green Card for Ruslan, and in 2000, he joined his relatives in Carmel, CA.  When the Sep 11th attacks occurred in 2001, he contacted an Army recruiter about the possibility of joining the U.S. Army.  The recruiter said he could enlist with a Green Card and signed him up as an 11B Infantry MOS.  At 28, he attended Basic Training at Ft. Benning, GA.  After graduating Basic, he attended Jump School and earned his U.S. Parachute Badge.  His first assignment was to B Co., 2/35th Infantry at Schofield Barracks, HI.  In 2003, he renounced his Russian citizenship and was sworn in as a U.S. citizen.  In April 2004, his unit deployed to Afghanistan for a year tour.  Upon returning, he was promoted to SGT.  He also earned Jumpmaster in the U.S. Army.  A few years later, he was recommended for OCS at Ft. Benning, and in 2007 he was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Infantry.  In 2009, Ruslan changed branches to Civil Affairs and spent the next 12 years working with Special Operations Forces out of Ft. Bragg, NC.  He retired from the Army in 2023.

S4E05 Air Force SMSgt (Ret) Juan Lopez

Joining me today is Air Force SMSgt (Ret) Juan Lopez.  Juan grew up in California both in Los Angeles and later Vacaville.  He attended Vacaville High School and graduated in 1999.  He joined the Air Force in 2000 and went to Basic Training in 2001.  His AFSC was 1C6 and he attended tech school at Vandenberg AFB, CA.  Juan’s first assignment was to 11 SWS (ALERT) at Schriever AFB, CO.  In 2002, he was reassigned to 2 SWS at Buckley AFB, CO.  After that tour, his next assignment was to work HEO with 460th Det 1 back at Schriever AFB in 2006.  Three years later, Juan was chosen to be an instructor with the 533rd Training Squadron back at Vandenberg AFB.  In 2013 he was assigned to 13 SWS at Clear AFB, AK for a one year remote tour.  He was then assigned back to Buckley with the 2 SWS to work the SBIRS Block 10 program.  In 2017, he was promoted to MSgt and then converted to the Reserves through Palace Front.  He was assigned to 4 SWS at Buckley as an Active Guard/Reservist.  Later, he was moved to the 710th Operations Group and was promoted to SMSgt in 2019.  Juan retired on 1 Nov 2021.

Marines at Mar-A-Lago and $1.5 Trillion Later… (Apr 17 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we unpack inflatable space stations (yes, that’s a thing now), which means Max Space is officially trying to turn low-Earth orbit into a high-end bounce house. If you came for the best space podcasts weirdness, congrats—you found it. Meanwhile, back on the ground, Arlington’s iconic horse-drawn caissons are delayed, probably because fixing dignity with bureaucracy is harder than launching a SpaceX rocket on time.

The F-35 program is bleeding money like it’s trying to win a Pentagon-themed game of Monopoly—now projected to cost over $1.5 trillion (with a “T”). Beards are making a comeback thanks to a medical waiver boom in the Air Force and Space Force, so somewhere out there, a bearded Guardian is silently fist-pumping. We also ask the burning question: what exactly were the Marines doing at Mar-A-Lago? Plus, we mark the 82nd anniversary of the Doolittle Raid, a gutsy reminder that throwing punches from the sky is an American tradition. As always, it’s your no-holds-barred space force podcast for vets, weirdos, and the tactically curious.

To support Mrs. Texas, Krendra Harralson, and the incredible work of Love Without Boundaries, visit: lovewithoutboundaries.com

S4E04 Army SFC (Ret) Krendra Harralson

Today I have the pleasure of speaking with Army SFC (Ret) Krendra Harralson.  Krendra grew up in Tacoma, WA and attended Lincoln High School.  As a Sophomore, she joined the school’s JROTC program.  During her Junior year, she signed a contract with the WA National Guard at 17, and attended Army Basic Training at Ft. Jackson, SC during the summer before her Senior year in High School.  After graduating in 1998, she completed her AIT at Ft. Sam Houston, TX as a 92B Medic. Her first assignment was with the WA NG Aviation unit as a Traditional Guardsman until Aug 2000.  Then she enlisted in the Active Duty Army and was assigned to Wiesbaden, Germany with the 557th Ground Ambulance Company in 2003.  Her next assignment was to the 4th Engineer Battalion at Ft. Carson, CO.  In 2009 her unit was deployed to Taji, Iraq.  During that deployment, her unit was relocated to Kandahar, Afghanistan where she was battlefield promoted to SSG in 2010.  A year later, SSG Harralson was assigned to the 555th Engineer Brigade at Ft. lewis, WA.  Her last assignment was to Ft. Sam Houston, TX in 2016 and she retired in 2018. After retiring, Krendra competed in the Ms. Veteran America through the non-profit Final Salute Inc.  Later, she received the appointed title of Mrs. Texas 2024 and will be competing for Mrs. USA at Omaha, NE in Aug 2024.  To find out more about Krendra’s journey and how you can help, please visit the links below:

Final Salute Inc.  https://www.finalsaluteinc.org/Home.html Love Without Boundaries. https://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093336497504 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/krendra_harralson/

S4E03 Army SFC (Ret) Keith Francis

The Veterans of Foreign Wars organization is an unrivaled source of past and living  military history.  I had the honor of visiting VFW Post 101 in Colorado Springs, CO, where I met Army SFC (Ret) Keith Francis.  Keith grew up in Alexandria, LA.  In 1974, he attended Grambling State University.  After getting a little burned out on school, he talked to an Army recruiter and swore in at the Shreveport, LA MEPS in 1976.  He attended Basic at Ft. Jackson, SC and was branched into the Air Defense.  After completing AIT at Ft. Bliss, TX he was assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division at Giebelstadt, Germany. His following assignments included the 7ID at Ft. Ord, CA, the 2ID at Uijeongbu, South Korea, the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Ft. Campbell, KY, the 25th ID at Schofield Barracks, HI, and the 4ID at Ft. Carson, CO.  Keith retired from active duty in 1996.

Lee Surrenders, Navy Fires, and Bidding Wars Begin (Apr 10 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, NASA taps three companies to design lunar rovers for the Artemis program—because apparently, moon golf carts are the next frontier. If you're into space podcasts that mix interplanetary ambition with snark, we’ve got you covered. Meanwhile, the Air Force wants to hit "skip intro" on seven state governors to shuttle Guard units into the Space Force, which sounds exactly like the plot of a low-budget military satire (but it’s real).

Over in the Navy, the only South American command just got ghosted by its own leadership, and we revisit the OG surrender of General Lee to General Grant—because if you’re gonna talk about losing, at least let it be historical. To top it off, we throw down in our highly scientific “military movie props auction” game, where patriotic memorabilia meets unhinged bidding strategies. It’s News for Vets, orbiting space nerds, and war movie addicts—all in one glorious, sarcastic package.

Woodrow Declares War, VA Declares Confusion (Apr 2 24)

This week, former Air Force Senior Airman Josh Rzepecki drops by to talk orbital logistics, military housing madness, and the VA’s latest orthopedic oopsies. We’re diving into Northrop Grumman’s shiny new orbital refueling port (space gas station, anyone?), plus how on-orbit service satellites and space junk removal are shaping the future of space traffic control—because even space podcasts have to talk trash sometimes.

Back on Earth, we unpack why military families at Edwards AFB are living in RVs like it's the 1970s again, and how Sailors are officially allowed to set up camp in RV parks full-time. Meanwhile, the VA can't seem to keep track of hip replacements, which feels about right. We also rewind to 1917, when Woodrow Wilson declared war on Germany and accidentally started the first group text nobody could leave. It’s all here—your favorite space force podcast for veterans, orbital mechanics, and pure enlisted energy.

S4E02 Air Force (Ret) Ana Mondragon

Today I speak with Air Force Retired Major Ana Mondragon.   Maj Mondragon grew up in San Angelo, TX, and attended San Angelo Central High School where she graduated in 1995.  She joined the Air Force in August 1995 under an Open Administration contract.  Upon completing basic training, she attended tech school at Kessler AFB in Biloxi, MS.  Her first assignment was to Reese AFB, in Lubbock, TX.   In 1997, she was assigned to a Joint Support Squadron at Stuttgart, Germany.  She came back to the States in 2000 when she was assigned to the 55th Space Weather Squadron at Falcon AFB, CO.  As a SrA, she left active duty and joined the AF Reserves.  Shortly thereafter she transitioned to the Air Reserve Technician program as a GS 7 with the 302nd Airlift Wing at Peterson AFB, CO.   After being promoted to Master Sergeant, she was hired in 2006 as an AGR in the 310th Space Wing with the 19th Space Operations Squadron.  She was later selected to the Deserving Airman Commissioning Program and was commissioned in 2010.  In 2017 she took a position with the 8th Space Warning Squadron at Buckley AFB, CO.  In 2020, she was hired into the 42nd Combat Training Squadron and was promoted to Major.  Maj Mondragon retired in 2024.

General Petty’s War Stories & Tactical Brain Dumps (Mar 27 24)

This week, we’re joined by Brigadier General (Ret.) Chris Petty—Army Aviator, NATO Commander, National Guard lifer, and a man who’s probably forgotten more about warfare than most of us ever learned. From flying over Iraq to commanding in Bosnia, Gen. Petty brings decades of insight, dark humor, and a tactical brain that could outmaneuver a GPS. We also dig into his site BattleDigest.com and his book “12 Battles Every American Should Know,” because knowing your history should involve more cannons and fewer textbooks.

Then we go bayonet-deep into the Battle of Shiloh, a Civil War meat grinder that makes modern warfare look like laser tag. This episode’s light on space podcasts talk but heavy on News for Vets, battlefield insights, and military grit. So whether you're here for a space force podcast or just like your war stories with a side of sarcasm, you're in the right AO.

Marching, Launching, and... Pooping on Beaches? (Mar 20 24)

This week, we raise a Guinness to the ‘Fighting 69th,’ who just marched down NYC for the 173rd year in a row because apparently, they don’t believe in sitting St. Patrick’s Day out. Meanwhile, SpaceX news hits hard with Starship’s third test flight—spoiler: it actually lifted off this time, proving Elon’s big rocket isn’t just for show.

But it’s not all parades and payloads. A new Blue Star Families survey shows a lot of folks are rethinking the military life—because deployments, PCS roulette, and TRICARE headaches don’t exactly scream “five-star Yelp review.” Oh, and California beach camping? Now banned overnight thanks to an excess of... human waste. Yes, really. It’s another day in the life of your favorite off-duty space force podcast, where we break down News for Vets, moonshots, and military absurdity with a wink and a war cry.

Talon Takes Flight, and a D-Day “I Do” (Mar 13 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we’re flying high and digging deep—literally and figuratively. We break down the ORBITS Act (yes, Congress finally remembered space exists), and Stratolaunch’s hypersonic Talon does its first powered flight. It’s a big flex in the space flight podcast world and a reminder that Mach-whatever is back on the menu. So if you like your space podcasts with a side of supersonic chaos, pull up a seat.

Meanwhile, over in the real world, 1,000 U.S. troops are setting up shop off Gaza for temporary port ops, proving once again we can deploy a floating logistics hub faster than the DMV can schedule an appointment. Also: a WWII vet is tying the knot on the beaches of Normandy like it’s 1944 and love just landed on Omaha. We wrap by saluting the day George Patton leveled up to Lieutenant General in 1943—because no one ever accused that guy of subtlety. It’s News for Vets, hypersonic nerds, and anyone who thinks logistics is sexy.

Military Injustice and the Great Grooming Debate (Mar 6 24)

This week, we break down the Air Force’s latest grooming standards—because nothing screams operational readiness like debating the tactical advantage of a mustache. Meanwhile, someone at the Pentagon confused MREs for Humanitarian Daily Rations and rained down chili mac over Gaza. Not a war crime, but definitely a crime against taste buds.

We also dig into the tough fight some veterans are facing to clear their names from military charges they say never should’ve stuck—because justice doesn't always come with a DD-214. And finally, we raise a cold beverage to the Navy Seabees, born March 5th, 1942, and still out there building, fighting, and making the rest of us look bad with a hammer. It’s another wildly offbeat ride through News for Vets, military mayhem, and regulation-breaking brilliance—powered by your favorite unapologetic space force podcast crew.

Late For Changeover 29 Feb 2024 SBIRS Reunion show

Today we have assembled some of the best NCOs from the early days of SBIRS at Buckley AFB, CO.  Guests include CMSgt (Ret) Robert Cherry, SMSgt (Ret) Derick Lucas, SMSgt (Ret) Jake Wall, MSgt (Ret) Ron Denmon, MSgt (Ret) Kevin Dunaway, MSgt (Ret) Mike Johns, and TSgt (Ret) Kevin Balcom.  Come relive the majesty of the Mission Control Station as we talk about the service members and events that shaped SBIRS!

Moon Landings, Movie Flops, and Our Beef with Hollywood's Worst Military Characters (Feb 28 24)

You know what grinds our gears? Bad military portrayals in movies. This week, we're counting down the top 5 most hated US military characters ever to disgrace the big screen—yes, even you, Lt. Kaffee. But we don’t stop there. From a historic moon landing by Intuitive Machines (Odysseus sticks the landing like a lunar gymnast) to the Marine Corps actually passing an audit—miracles do happen—we’re serving up the weird, wild, and war-fueled news you didn’t know you needed.

We’ve also got a Drill Sergeant out-shooting everyone at the Army’s marksman course (your DI could never), the Navy gets its first-ever Robotics Warfare Specialist (cue the Skynet jokes), and we throw it back to 1864 with a grim milestone at Andersonville prison camp. Whether you’re into space podcasts, Space Force news, or just here for the hot takes and haircuts, this space news podcast has the camo-colored chaos you crave. Reporting live from the barracks of your brain—strap in.

S4E01 Marines LCpl Samuel Myers

Today I speak with Marine Lance Corporal Samuel Myers.  Sam grew up in Ventura, Ca and graduated high school in 1984.  After a brief time at the Philadelphia Phillies camp, Sam took a job in offshore drilling.  He decided that three years of that backbreaking work was enough and went to see the Marines recruiter in Ventura, CA.  In June 1989 went to MCRD Sand Diego for Bootcamp under an open contract.  His MOS became 0811, Field Artillery Cannoneer and his first assignment was to 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment at 29 Palms, CA in 1990.  During his unit’s UDP to Okinawa, Iraq invaded Kuwait.  Sam and his unit were then sent to Kuwait where he saw action in Desert Storm and the Battle of Khafji.  After the Gulf War, and a brief time back home at 29 Palms, his unit was sent to Mogadishu, Somalia for Operation Restore Hope.  After spending 36 months in combat zones, Sam exited active duty in July 1993.

Club 214 & The Cryptologic Sleep Talker (Feb 21 24)

Put down the tiara and back away from the OCPs—we’re diving headfirst into another chaotic installment of Late For Changeover. This week, the gang is joined by former Navy cryptologic tech and founder of Club 214, Ashley Eckert, who’s here to drop insight, sarcasm, and stories about accidentally sleep-speaking Arabic. You’ll also get the lowdown on Navy uniform changes (spoiler: you can now put your hands in your pockets legally), the Marine Corps’ refusal to join the chill club, and the military’s new addiction: Ozempic. Who needs a PT test when you've got semaglutide?

We’re also launching into orbit (pun fully intended) with a nod to John Glenn and Project Mercury—because even salty veterans like us get misty-eyed over space race nostalgia. From Space Force news to space travel podcast vibes, it’s your weekly mix of military absurdity, veteran community vibes, and space geekery. If you're looking for Podcasts about Air Force veterans that also mock eyelash regulations, this is your gravitational pull.

Virtual Vietnam & Super Bowl Shenanigans (Feb 14 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we’re taking a knee and breaking down the real battle at the Super Bowl—the war for your attention in the commercial breaks. Each military branch brought their A-game (or tried to) with ads that ranged from inspiring to seriously, who greenlit this? And speaking of old dogs doing new tricks, the Air Force wants its retirees back. Yes, back-back. So dust off that uniform and pretend you didn’t just Google “how old is too old for PT?”

We also dive into VR therapy that drops veterans into ‘virtual Vietnam’—because nothing says cutting-edge tech like reliving jungle warfare in high-def. Plus, we rewind all the way to the very first Medal of Honor recipient and ask, “Would he have worn a Space Force tiara if given the chance?” Probably not. But who are we to judge? If you like podcasts about Air Force veterans, awkward military ad campaigns, and weirdly informative detours, this is the space force podcast that boldly goes where no E-3 has gone before.

Space Force Launches a Guardian (and a PR Campaign) Feb 7 24

This week on Late For Changeover, we're aiming high and getting weird—starting with the Air Force’s bold new recruiting strategy: advertising on Call of Duty: Mobile. Because nothing says “join the real fight” like sniping from your phone during bathroom breaks. Meanwhile, Space Force steps up its game and launches its first actual Guardian into orbit. Take that, Coast Guard.

We also dig into some not-so-fun News for Vets: Air Force nuclear bases have been sitting on a toxic time bomb with asbestos and cancer-linked chemicals for years. Combine that with the Navy waiving its high school diploma requirement, and you’ve got a full bingo card of military headlines that feel more sci-fi than space flight podcasts. But hey, if refueling satellites is now a thing, maybe there's still hope for the best podcast about space and stupidity.

Upside Down on the Moon & Other Things We’re Not Explaining (Jan 31 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we're flipping the script—literally. Japan landed a spacecraft on the moon upside down (on purpose, they claim), which naturally raises the question: has anyone tried turning it off and back on again? Meanwhile, NASA drops its latest toy: the X-59 supersonic jet, which promises to break the sound barrier without also breaking windows or eardrums. Cue the Top Gun: Whisper Edition jokes.

Back here on Earth, we break down the chaos of retirees trying to score their new USID cards (spoiler: it's not going well), and we throw some elbows into the climate change ring as an astrophysicist enters the chat with a spicy counterpoint. Whether you're into space podcasts, veteran gripes, or just need a break from doomscrolling, this episode delivers jet-fueled absurdity and a healthy dose of News for Vets—no GED required.

Audie Murphy Would Like a Word (and Probably Your Rifle) Jan 24 24

This week on Late For Changeover, the Space Force goes gig economy—because nothing says “elite warfighting domain” like a part-time Guardian with weekend availability. We salute the side-hustle hustle while a rogue wave sucker-punches a U.S. Army base in the Marshall Islands (nature’s version of “check your six”). And in a masterclass of military oopsies, a misplaced flashlight gets sucked into an F-35 engine, lighting $4 million on fire.

We also rewind to one of the OGs of badassery: Audie Murphy and his one-man stand in January 1945. Spoiler: he didn’t need stealth jets or supersonic drones—just grit, guts, and a whole lot of ammo. If you're here for space news podcast content, epic fails, or News for Vets with a side of gallows humor, this episode hits harder than a wave at high tide.

SpaceX Boom or Bust & the Billion-Dollar Oops (Jan 17 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we’re juggling SpaceX wins and fails like Elon himself—because sometimes rockets fly, and sometimes they flambé. Also, salute to Miss Colorado, who just made history as the first active-duty service member to wear the Miss America crown. That tiara? Regulation approved, probably. Meanwhile, China’s Gravity-1 rocket breaks records, and we ask the obvious question: are we still winning the space race, or just scrolling through it on a space news podcast?

Back on Earth, the Pentagon “misplaces” over a billion dollars in military aid to Ukraine (classic), the first Army NCOs get autopromoted for finishing recruiting school (press F to rank up), and the service academies are suddenly big on talking about oaths and the Constitution—again. From SpaceX news to News for Vets, this episode’s got orbital energy and ground-level absurdity in equal measure.

Beauty Queens, Bomb Tracks & Hypersonic Dreams (Jan 10 24)

This week on Late For Changeover, we’re firing up a launch window of chaos and curiosity. First up: the Pentagon’s latest space-age tag team—agencies joining forces to launch hypersonic tracking satellites because apparently, we’re done playing hide and seek with missiles. Meanwhile, a U.S. company’s moon landing dreams might crash and burn before ever leaving Earth. Get your popcorn ready, this one’s part space race, part space faceplant.

Also in the mix: an Air Force officer struts into the Miss America arena—and fights cancer with science while she’s at it. Plus, we kick off our new segment “Midshift Conversations,” where we tackle the College Football Playoff National Championship with the energy of a drunk E-4 during midnight chow. From space force podcast vibes to News for Vets and football debates, it’s your favorite military mess hall with a mic.

Rockets, Reactions & Ridiculous Bids (Jan 3 24)

Blast off with Late For Changeover as we launch straight into January’s stacked lineup of domestic space missions—and yes, SpaceX is back at it with another Falcon 9 flight from Vandenberg. We break down the livestream like it’s game film from basic training: pixelated, loud, and somehow still motivational. If you're into SpaceX news, space podcasts with attitude, or just like hearing veterans yell about rockets, this one's your fuel-up.

Then we switch gears from boosters to bidding in the Military Auction Game—where tactical gear meets tactical chaos. Want to hear grown adults argue over MRE lots and vintage PT belts like it’s eBay for enlisted? Welcome home. It’s a space news podcast meets PX parking lot showdown—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

A Spacey, Salty, Surprisingly Sentient Look Back at 2023 (Dec 27 23)

Strap in and hold onto your challenge coins—it’s the Late For Changeover 2023 year-in-review episode! We're looking back at the biggest wins, wildest fails, and weirdest military moments from the past year, from SpaceX news that had us cheering (and cringing), to Space Force headlines that made even Guardians say, “Wait, what?” It’s a highlight reel packed with orbital drama, Pentagon policy curveballs, and enough acronyms to break a comms officer.

We’re talking botched launches, surprise promotions, uniform updates that still have us scratching our heads, and the best hot mic moments this side of the DFAC. Whether you're a space force podcast junkie, a veteran podcast purist, or just here for the chaos, this is the best podcast about space and military absurdity you didn’t know you needed. 2023 was a trip—let’s roast it properly.

S3E18 Navy PO2 Steven Leapley

My guest today is former Navy Petty Officer, 2nd Class Steven Leapley.  Steven grew up in the midwest and went to high school in St. Charles, IL.  After graduating, he joined the Navy and went to Great Lakes Naval Training Center in 1991.  He became a Corpsman and attended A School at Great Lakes.  His first assignment was to the Medical Center at Great Lakes.  His next assignments were to Guam, Mare Island in California, and then to San Diego.  He left the military on September 4th, 2001.  Steven currently owns and operates Leapley Enterprises LLC where his specialty is ghostwriting.   He can be found at the links below: https://leapleyenterprises.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenleapley/