A podcast dedicated to the latest events and happenings on one of the largest Air Force bases, “Tinker Talks” features various perspectives from the 5,600-acre installation. Captured by the 72nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs Office, this podcast shares stories, updates and insights on Tinker Air Force Base.

Please make sure to subscribe, download and "LIKE" us on iTunes, and feel free to leave a comment and let us know what you'd like to hear.

Current Episode: 507th Air Refueling Wing Commander Talks Citizen Airman, Total Force

This episode features the commander of the 507th Air Refueling Wing, Col. Michael Parks. He is an active duty colonel commanding an operational reserve wing.

Col. Parks talks about his career and how he came to be the commander of Oklahoma's largest flying wing. He also highlights what a Citizen Airman is and how they manage dual roles - citizen and Air Force Reservist.

We also dive into the importance the reserve mission is to the Total Force. Ops tempo has been very high for nearly two decades and the highly skilled Airman at the 507th are critical to maintaining operations around the globe.

Previous Episode: Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

On this episode of Tinker Talks, we sit down with Ali Kern, Family Advocacy intervention specialist, to discuss Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.
Every February, young people and their loved ones join together to bring awareness about the issues related to teen dating violence. The month-long campaign focuses on education to end the abuse before it starts.

Teens who experience dating abuse are subject to long term consequences like alcoholism, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts and violent behaviors. Statistics show that 1 in 3 teens will experience some sort of abuse before they reach adulthood. That abuse can be physical, sexual or emotional.

Resources are available to learn more about combating teen dating violence. Visit loveisrespect.org, text LOVEIS to 22522 or call 1.866.331.9474. You can also visit teendvmonth.org or call the Tinker Family Advocacy Program at 405-582-6604.