Best Derek Oaks Podcasts (2025)

1
What being deployed for Christmas taught me? 24:01

7h ago24:01

24:01

In this heartfelt episode of Commander’s Intent, Derek Oakes and Rob reflect on choosing gratitude even during holiday separation—whether caused by military service, demanding careers, leadership responsibilities, or life circumstances beyond your control. Drawing from years of deployments, missed Christmases, and time spent far from family, they s…

1
Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree 40:30

6d ago40:30

40:30

In an age old tradition, D-Rock and JR are joined by friends of the show, C-Money and Mead Man for the annual Whiskey + Rock Christmas bottle swap. For under $50, who can give the best gift of the season? Join the festivities for some never-before-featured bottles and exclusive bonus pours. From everyone at W+R, Merry Christmas to you and yours! We…

1
Can you make a high stakes decision with confidence? 41:37

7d ago41:37

41:37

In this episode of Commander’s Intent, Derek Oakes and former senior diplomat Bart Marcois break down how high-stakes leaders make decisions knowing they’ll be second-guessed. Using the 2003 Iraq invasion as a case study, they explore confirmation bias, imperfect intelligence, and the reality that leaders rarely get “good” options—only necessary on…

1
Into the Oak: Oaklore Double Feature & Barrell’s Toasted Twist 11:34

13d ago11:34

11:34

D-Rock and JR go on a flavor expedition—starting with Oaklore’s double drop, exploring what the young distillery is bringing to the table. Then it’s time for the debut of Barrell’s Toasted Dovetail, where sweetness, char, and complexity collide Website: https://whiskeyandrock.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyandrock/ FaceBook Group: …

1
What are the 5 keys to a successful career? 10:20

15d ago10:20

10:20

In this episode, Derek Oaks breaks down the five essential keys to building a successful career—no matter your field. Drawing from his experience as an Air Force squadron commander, Derek reveals why technical competence, communication, leadership opportunities, doing the “required squares,” and understanding how your team fits into the bigger miss…

1
The Desert Sun's Fire & Ice Podcast - Media Roundtable (December 10, 2025) 50:46

14d ago50:46

50:46

With a third of the season (nearly) in the books, join in for this collection of (fairly) learned hockey media minds, as the host rountables with The Desert Sun's Shad Powers and Andrew John, and Blake Arthur of KESQ. Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.…

1
From Cognac to Tequila: A Two-Finish Throwdown 7:47

20d ago7:47

7:47

D-Rock and JR dive into two newer bourbon finishes to hit the Whiskey & Rock table. First up: the brand-new 1792 Cognac Finished Bourbon, bringing rich fruit, oak, and old-world elegance into the mix. Then the latest Blood Oath Tequila Barrel Finished Bourbon, where classic Kentucky sweetness collides with agave. See Privacy Policy at https://art19…

1
Can you trust AI with your important decisions? 35:15

22d ago35:15

35:15

In this episode, Derek and Rob break down what AI really is, how it functions as a decision-support system, and why leaders must be cautious about trusting it blindly. They share real examples—from aviation to law—showing how AI can boost productivity, but also how it can mislead, hallucinate, and create false confidence. This conversation equips y…

1
Ep 124 | Colleen Shine – The Search for Her Father in Vietnam 1:19:26

23d ago1:19:26

1:19:26

In this episode, Colleen Shine, daughter of Air Force Lt. Col. Anthony Shine, shares her decades-long search for answers about her father’s fate after he was shot down and went missing in Vietnam in 1972. At just eight years old, Colleen began a journey that led her from uncertainty and loss to a determined investigation, including traveling to Vie…

1
Black Friday Blindfolds: Whiskey, Rock & C Money's Bottle Heist 23:50

27d ago23:50

23:50

On this special Black Friday episode, D-Rock and JR crank up the rock anthems and crack open two killer new whiskey bottles they've unearthed from their latest liquor run. Special guest C Money joins the fray, trading stories and sips while D-Rock drops a curveball with a mystery blind tasting that keeps everyone guessing. Website: https://whiskeya…

1
Are you a narcissistic leader or an empathetic one? 10:06

29d ago10:06

10:06

In this episode, Derek Oaks unpacks one of the most defining traits of great leadership—empathy. Through a deeply personal story about nearly losing his son while preparing for deployment, Derek reveals how empathetic leadership from his commander kept him grounded, capable, and effective during the hardest season of his life. This powerful episode…

1
The Desert Sun's Fire & Ice Podcast - A Visit with J.R. Avon (November 25, 2025) 58:01

1M ago58:01

58:01

What a find: Firebirds' forward J.R. Avon joins in to chat about the trade that brought him to the desert, his stellar start with the 'Birds and lessons learned from his stepfather, NHL legend Steve Larmer. Lace-up this fresh, pre-Thanksgiving episode and stay tuned for a "Desert Shootout" Q&A segment with The Desert Sun's Shad Powers. Questions or…

1
Tanyard Hill Takeover: Jack Daniel’s New Rye with C Money 12:46

1M ago12:46

12:46

The boys are back and this time they’ve got company! Special guest C Money slides into the Whiskey & Rock studio as D-Rock and JR crack open the brand-new Jack Daniel’s Tanyard Hill Tennessee Rye – the bold, barrel-proof special release straight from Lynchburg’s experimental Tanyard Hill rickhouse series. Listen in on their takes on the heavy rye m…

1
Can I Really Make Better Decision Faster? 11:44

1M ago11:44

11:44

This episode dives into the life and legacy of Colonel John Boyd—the fighter pilot and strategist behind the revolutionary OODA Loop. Derek Oaks breaks down Boyd’s unmatched brilliance, his role in shaping modern fighter aircraft like the F-16 and A-10, and how his decision-making model transformed air combat and leadership alike. You’ll learn how …

1
It's a Sweet Trip to the Bottle Shop (Part 2) 41:56

1M ago41:56

41:56

In part 2 of D-Rock and JR's trip to the Bottle Shop in Franklin, TN, they continue an exclusive tasting and conversation with premium pour purveyors, Steve and Gideon. Featuring rare finds from brands like Preservation and Peerless, and inside information on industry trends and experiences, this episode is one to remember! Shop The Bottle Shop! ht…

1
What should be the Chief of Staff’s Commander’s Intent? 48:24

1M ago48:24

48:24

“The money goes to the trusted and prepared.” In this candid conversation, Colonel Derek Oaks and General Mike Minihan dissect what it truly takes to rebuild and resource the U.S. Air Force for the threats of tomorrow. From the broken acquisition system to the suffocating “frozen middle” of bureaucracy, they expose the tension between process and p…

1
The Desert Sun's Fire & Ice Podcast - A Visit with Jacob Melanson (November 13, 2025) 48:53

1M ago48:53

48:53

A 'Birds' game hasn't truly started until Jacob Melanson has a cut on his face. Join in for a visit with the popular CV forward, and stay tuned for a Desert Shootout Q&A with reporter Andrew John. Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.By Judd Spicer

1
It's a Sweet Trip to the Bottle Shop (Part 1) 47:54

2M ago47:54

47:54

In an exclusive on-location episode, D-Rock and JR sit down with Steve and Gideon from beloved spirits purveyor, The Bottle Shop in Franklin, Tennessee. The guys learn about all things behind-the-counter, like how to pick a proper barrel; why story matters; and how to create community, not just customers. Shop The Bottle Shop! https://thebottleshop…

1
What is a Fighter Pilot Debrief & Why Would I Use it? 14:50

2M ago14:50

14:50

In this episode of Commander's Intent, retired Air Force Colonel and fighter pilot Derek Oaks reveals the real reason U.S. fighter pilots stay at the top of their game—and it’s not the jets, the gear, or the swagger. It’s the aggressive, egoless debrief after every mission. Derek walks you through a humbling story from his own instructor upgrade in…

1
Wings of Gold: Tasting Found North's Goldfinch First Flight 6:06

2M ago6:06

6:06

D-Rock and JR take flight with Found North's latest masterpiece, Goldfinch First Flight—a bold Canadian blend of 15-22-year-old corn and 20-year-old rye whiskies, finished in Sauternes, Cognac, and new American oak casks for a symphony of creamy white fruits, citrus bursts, and rich caramel depth at 58.1% ABV. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.co…

1
Whiskey & Rock Halloween: D-Rock & JR Unleash the Scary Good & Scary Bad Bottles 10:59

2M ago10:59

10:59

D-Rock and JR bring in 2 bottles..a scary good and a scary bad. Tune in to see what was brought. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

1
Are You More of a Commander or Follower? 12:16

2M ago12:16

12:16

True leadership isn’t about authority — it’s about responsibility. In this episode of Commander’s Intent, retired Air Force Colonel and Fighter Pilot Derek Oaks breaks down the real meaning behind the word Commander — to entrust, empower, and take ownership. Discover how embracing your own “commander’s intent” helps you lead with clarity in your ca…

1
The Desert Sun's Fire & Ice Podcast - A Visit with Tyson Jugnauth (October 29, 2025) 52:25

2M ago52:25

52:25

The season is underway, and the young 'Birds are finding their footing. Lace-up this visit with rookie defenseman Tyson Jugnauth, and stay tuned for a "Desert Shootout" Q&A with Shad Powers. Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.By Judd Spicer

1
Barrell Trippin': D-Rock, JR, and the Foundation Deep Dive with Barrel Spirits' Tripp 38:29

2M ago38:29

38:29

Buckle up, whiskey wanderers—D-Rock and JR are back in the studio with Tripp from Barrel Spirits for a no-holds-barred tasting of Barrell's newest heavy hitters. We crack open the Foundation Double Barrell, dissect every caramel-soaked note of Batch 37, then chase it with the velvet hammer that is the Armagnac-finished bourbon. See Privacy Policy a…

1
Are you a Wimpy Leader or a Confident one? 20:52

2M ago20:52

20:52

In this episode of Commander's Intent, retired Air Force Colonel and leadership mentor Derek Oaks reveals what it truly means to be a confident leader — not one driven by ego or control, but by clarity, competence, and calm under pressure. Drawing from powerful real-life experiences in the cockpit and the Pentagon, Derek shares how true confidence …

1
What is Commanders Intent & Why Should You Care? 14:30

2M ago14:30

14:30

In this premiere episode of Commander's Intent, retired Air Force Colonel and fighter pilot Derek Oaks shares how confident decision-making separates great leaders from the rest. Drawing from real-life combat and leadership experiences, Derek reveals how to define your “Commander’s Intent” — the what and why behind your mission — and empower your t…

1
Rye Revival & Scottish Smoke: Tasting Sazerac 100 and Loch Lomond 12 10:58

2M ago10:58

10:58

D-Rock and JR crank up the amps to dive into two fresh spirit sensations shaking up the scene. First up: Buffalo Trace's bold new Sazerac Rye 100 Proof—a bartender's dream punch at 50% ABV, delivering enhanced spice, clove, and pepper notes that elevate classic cocktails like the iconic Sazerac without overwhelming the mix. Then, they cross the pon…

1
The Fantastic Flavored Fiasco Vol 2 9:41

3M ago9:41

9:41

D-Rock and JR bring out the flavored spirits again trying the new Jack Daniels Raspberry and Fireball Apple. Website: https://whiskeyandrock.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyandrock/ FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2028883060836697/ X: https://twitter.com/whiskeyandrock See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy …

1
The Desert Sun's Fire & Ice Podcast - A Visit with Troy Bodie (October 8, 2025) 55:23

3M ago55:23

55:23

The boys are back! Lace-up for the debut episode of Season 4, as the host is joined by Troy Bodie, CV's VP of Hockey Ops, and Andrew John, reporter for The Desert Sun. Questions or Comments on Fire & Ice? Get in touch with the host via this Text Message feature.By Judd Spicer

1
Repeal & Revelry: Tasting Remus Repeal IX and Larrikin Cigar Lounge 15:05

3M ago15:05

15:05

D-Rock and JR uncork the bold new Remus Repeal Reserve Series IX—a 104-proof Prohibition tribute blending aged high-rye bourbons with notes of oak, cherry, and tobacco—then light up the conversation with Larrikin Bourbon Co.'s exotic "Cigar Lounge," a 9-year Kentucky straight finished in cognac, madeira, amburana, and jaca fruit barrels for a smoky…

1
Ep 123 | Lori Chapman Longfritz | Remembering John Chapman – Left Alone on Takur Ghar: Part 2 1:47:30

3M ago1:47:30

1:47:30

In part 2 of my interview with Lori Chapman Longfritz, sister of Medal of Honor recipient John Chapman, we discuss John’s final moments at the Battle of Takur Ghar in 2002, his courage as an Air Force Combat Controller, and the delayed recognition and non-recognition of his heroism (from who you ask?? The Navy, his SEAL team, National Medal of Hono…

1
Lone Star Sips: Bendt's Bold Duo 8:56

3M ago8:56

8:56

In this rockin’ episode, D-Rock and JR dive into the heart of Texas with two standout pours from Bendt Distilling Co. First up, they savor Bendt’s Straight Bourbon, unpacking its bold, classic profile with notes of caramel, oak, and a touch of Lone Star swagger. Then, the duo raises a glass to Bendt’s award-winning Wheated Whiskey, marveling at its…

1
Ep 122 | Lori Chapman Longfritz | Remembering John Chapman – Left Alone on Takur Ghar: Part 1 1:01:59

3M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

In this episode, I speak with Lori Chapman Longfritz, sister of Medal of Honor recipient John Chapman, about her brother’s remarkable life and ultimate sacrifice. Lori shares personal stories that reveal John’s character, his commitment to family, and his job as an elite Air Force Combat Controller. She also reflects on the events that led to his d…

1
Wanna Start a Whiskey Brand? ft. Morgan Salsman from LQD Assets 46:22

3M ago46:22

46:22

This week, D-Rock and JR take get the ultimate backstage pass to the bourbon biz with founder of LQD Assets, Morgan Salsman. Morgan started LQD as a way for brands and individuals to enter into the world of barrel investing, warehousing, and brand services. She pulls out all the stops with exclusive tastings from barrels in LQD's inventory. Grab a …

1
Triple Play Whiskey: Babe Ruth Bourbon, Scotch-Aged American, and Irish Vibes with D-Rock & JR 14:35

4M ago14:35

14:35

D-Rock and JR try the new Babe Ruth bourbon from Remus, along with a couple of new releases from over seas. Website: https://whiskeyandrock.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyandrock/ FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2028883060836697/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/whiskeyandrock See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/pri…

1
Sipping Tarheel Spirits with Oaklore Distillery 29:52

4M ago29:52

29:52

Join D-Rock and JR as they sit down with Tom and Matt from Oaklore Distillery in Matthews, NC, for an unforgettable episode of Whiskey + Rock! Dive into the rich history and innovative craft of North Carolina whiskey as the team shares their journey, from the birth of Oaklore to their unique distillation process and barrel-aging secrets. See Privac…

1
JR's Whiskey Stash Rocks the Mic 18:27

4M ago18:27

18:27

JR brings in bottles from his personal collection to sample D-Rock on. Website: https://whiskeyandrock.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyandrock/ FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2028883060836697/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/whiskeyandrock See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at…

1
Rockin' the Rosewater 6:14

5M ago6:14

6:14

D-Rock and JR try the latest offering from Larrikin Bourbon as well as 2 staples from their offerings. Website: https://whiskeyandrock.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyandrock/ FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2028883060836697/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/whiskeyandrock See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy …

1
Episode #113: Strategy and Tactics for the Surge with Joe Katuzeinski 1:18:34

5M ago1:18:34

1:18:34

🎙️ Episode #113 – Lessons from the Cockpit Welcome to another mission-ready episode of the Lessons from the Cockpit show! I'm your host Lt. Col. Mark Hasara, retired Air Force KC-135 pilot, Weapons School graduate, and aviation fanatic for over 60 years. Strap in for this one—because we're bringing serious airpower experience to the table. Joining …

1
Episode #112: When do you CEASE FIRE? 59:51

5M ago59:51

59:51

🎙️ Episode 112 – How Do You Know When to Stop the Fight? Welcome back to another airpower-packed episode of Lessons from the Cockpit! I'm your host Lt. Col. Mark Hasara, retired KC-135 Weapons Officer and Joint Specialty Officer. For 60 years, I've lived and breathed aviation. Today we are going to talk about a very tough aspect of planning for war…

1
Episode #111: Operation Rising Lion and US Response Options 2:22:49

5M ago2:22:49

2:22:49

🎙️ Episode 111 – Operation Rising Lion: Israel's Knockout Blow to Iran! Strap in for the 111th episode of the Lessons from the Cockpit show! I'm Mark Hasara, retired Air Force KC-135 pilot, Weapons School graduate, and the guy who's been obsessed with aviation for over 60 years. This episode dives into one of the most aggressive and precise modern …

1
Navigating the Probate Process in Real Estate with Derek Malcolm 17:06

5M ago17:06

17:06

Summary In this episode of Tennessee Real Estate Insider, host Allyson Spencer and probate expert Derek Malcolm discuss the intricacies of selling a home during the probate process. They cover the basics of probate, the different types of probate processes, timelines involved, and the importance of understanding wills and heirs. The conversation al…

1
Ep 121 | Marc Fitzwater – Army JTAC, I68 Consulting Group 1:05:22

5M ago1:05:22

1:05:22

In this episode, I talk with Marc Fitzwater (@i68consultinggroup)—former Army Green Beret, JTAC, and teammate of my brother Mark Forester. Marc shares what it was like serving alongside Mark in combat, the bonds formed with the guys from ODA 7212, the intense responsibility of calling in air support, and how those experiences shaped his life and le…

1
Diving into Hell Diver and Minden Single Malt 8:48

5M ago8:48

8:48

D-Rock and JR try the new Found North Hell Diver 2025 and a new offering from Minden Mill. Website: https://whiskeyandrock.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyandrock/ FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2028883060836697/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/whiskeyandrock See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and Californ…

1
Triple Turkey Tasting, a blind Whiskey and Rock Rumble 16:33

5M ago16:33

16:33

D-Rock and JR are joined by C$ to blind taste 3 Wild Turkey 101 variations and discuss finances and music. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

1
Tiny, Southern Whiskey and Old Fitz 37:10

6M ago37:10

37:10

D-Rock and JR are joined by their good friend Tiny to discuss all things Southern Whiskey Society and try the brand new Old Fitz 7 year. Website: https://whiskeyandrock.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyandrock/ FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2028883060836697/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/whiskeyandrock Southern Whisk…

1
Greater Impact, Greater Purpose: Real Estate with a Mission 15:26

6M ago15:26

15:26

Summary In this episode of Tennessee Real Estate Insider, host Allyson Spencer interviews Kathy Oakes, the owner of Greater Impact Realty. They discuss the company's mission to create a community-focused real estate experience, emphasizing the importance of relationships over transactions. Kathy shares the history of Greater Impact, its charity ini…

1
The return of Tarak for Elixir's finest spirits 26:09

6M ago26:09

26:09

D-Rock and JR are joined again by Tarak from Elixir Spirits along with C$ to sample some tequila and rum picks. Website: https://whiskeyandrock.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyandrock/ FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2028883060836697/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/whiskeyandrock See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com…

1
Elixir's Finest Whiskey, sipping with Tarak. 29:11

6M ago29:11

29:11

D-Rock and JR are joined by our good friend Tarak from Elixir Spirits to drink 5 unique single barrel picks. Website: https://whiskeyandrock.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyandrock/ FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2028883060836697/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/whiskeyandrock See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/pr…

1
Understanding Real Estate Scams with Derek Malcolm 22:07

6M ago22:07

22:07

Summary In this episode, Allyson Spencer and Derek Malcolm discuss the various scams prevalent in the real estate industry, focusing on wire fraud, seller impersonation, and deed fraud. They explore how these scams operate, the impact on buyers and sellers, and the importance of using secure methods to protect against fraud. The conversation emphas…

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Derek Oaks Podcasts

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