The Stronger is Better Podcast focuses on principles and process. Host Nick Delgadillo is the CEO of Starting Strength Gyms, longtime Starting Strength Coach, BJJ school owner and Self Defense Coach, specializing in unarmed and armed combatives. In this podcast, Nick will discuss how the lessons learned through hard physical effort apply to coaching, learning, business, and relationships. Connect With Starting Strength Gyms https://www.startingstrengthgyms.com/ https://www.instagram.com/star ...
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Nick Delgadillo Podcasts
Tactical Business is the weekly business show for the firearms industry. The podcast features in-depth interviews with the entrepreneurs, professionals and technologists who are enabling the next generation of firearms businesses to innovate and grow. From attracting and keeping good employees, to employing technology that cuts costs and streamlines your firearms business, to understanding the tax and gun regulations that uniquely apply to our industry, if it impacts firearms businesses, we ...
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Jon LaCorte: Success With The Direct To Consumer Model (Optics)
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39:54In this episode of the Tactical Business Podcast, host Wade Skalsky sits down Jon LaCorte of Tract Optics. Jon hares his journey from a 15-year career at Nikon to launching a disruptive direct-to-consumer optics brand. He reveals how cutting out the retail middleman allows them to deliver premium, shot-glass quality at unmatched value. Jon discusse…
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Stop Screwing up your Novice Linear Progression | Stronger is Better Podcast #12
1:09:11
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1:09:11Send us a text In this episode, Nick Delgadillo and Ray Gillenwater revisit one of the most important topics in barbell training: the Starting Strength Novice Linear Progression (NLP). Originally recorded in 2021, this conversation outlines everything you need to know about the NLP — from day one in the gym to transitioning into intermediate progra…
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Dwight Settle: A Firearm Accessory That Works Almost Too Well
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28:28In this episode of the Tactical Business Podcast, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Dwight Settle. Dwight shares his journey from a 21-year military career to launching a business with a longtime friend. He details the unique, non-toxic, and multi-purpose qualities of their flagship product, Seal1 CLP Plus, a revolutionary firearm cleaner and lubric…
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A Stronger Chassis for Everest with David “Ghost” Phillips | Stronger Is Better Podcast #11
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1:20:19Send us a text On this episode of the Stronger is Better Podcast, Nick talks with David “Ghost” Phillips, a retired Navy veteran, mountaineer, and member at Starting Strength San Antonio. David shares his journey from the Appalachian Trail to summiting Mount Everest, his battle with frostbite, and his ambitious “Project 327”—the pursuit of the Trip…
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Christopher Ryan: From 9 to 5 To Making Exotic Leather Holsters
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41:06In this episode of the Tactical Business Podcast, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Christopher Ryan, the founder and sole craftsman behind Mayhem Leather Company. Christopher shares his remarkable journey from a full-time audio/visual technician to a master artisan creating high-end, custom leather holsters and exotic gun grips.…
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What if You Want to Learn Self Defense? with John Valentine | Stronger Is Better Podcast #10
1:25:15
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1:25:15Send us a text In this episode of the Stronger Is Better Podcast, Nick Delgadillo sits down with John Valentine — BJJ black belt, active-duty military instructor, and founder of the Combatives Association. They discuss the fundamentals of real-world self-defense, the importance of pressure testing in training, and how martial arts like Brazilian Ji…
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In this episode of the Tactical Business Podcast, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Nick Delgado. Tactical strength expert Nick Delgado break down the warrior mindset - how barbell training, combat sports, and firearms proficiency create a complete self-defense system. Learn why strength is your first line of defense, how jiu-jitsu develops combat i…
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Better People through Learning to Fight | Stronger is Better Podcast #9
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48:29Send us a text In this episode of the Stronger is Better Podcast, Nick Delgadillo is interviewed by Hari Fafutis of Tavros Strength in Mexico. Nick describes his approach to physical and mental development through hard physical effort. The discussion dives into: •Why building strength is the foundation of self-defense •The role of martial arts in r…
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Spencer Feldman: The Inventor Of The Green Light Sight (Shoot Faster)
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38:23In this episode of the Tactical Business Podcast, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Spencer Feldman, inventor and founder of Greenlight Sights, to discuss his revolutionary firearm optic designed for speed and accuracy in high-stress situations. Spencer shares how his background in alternative medicine led to creating a game-changing sight that enha…
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Golf Performance and Barbell Training with McKenna Murphy | Stronger is Better Podcast #8
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58:24Send us a text In Episode 8 of the Stronger is Better Podcast, Nick Delgadillo sits down with elite junior golfer McKenna Murphy and her Starting Strength Coach, Pete Troupos, to discuss how barbell training played a critical role in elevating McKenna’s golf performance. From winning the U.S. Kids Teen World Championship to earning a D1 scholarship…
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Kenton Industries : Simplifying Long Range Precision Shooting With Tech
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31:56In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Mark Kenton from Kenton Industries. Mark Kenton about his journey from shooting enthusiast to founder of Kenton Industries, a leader in custom bullet drop compensator (BDC) turrets that simplify long-range precision. Mark shares how he turned a passion into a thriving busines…
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Strength Training, Pregnancy, & Pelvic Health with Dr. Becky Maidansky | Stronger Is Better Podcast #7
1:09:16
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1:09:16Send us a text In this episode of the Stronger is Better Podcast, Nick Delgadillo sits down with Dr. Becky Maidansky, pelvic floor specialist and founder of Lady Bird Physical Therapy https://www.ladybirdpt.com/ in Austin, TX. They explore the realities of training through pregnancy, postpartum recovery, pelvic floor dysfunction, and why strength i…
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Andy Hallinan: Elite Marketing Strategies For The 2a Space
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33:18In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Andy Hallinan from Carry Daily to discuss game-changing marketing strategies for firearm instructors and FFLs. Andy reveals how firearm instructors and FFLs can leverage Facebook ads, email lists, and direct response strategies to scale—even during political slumps. Learn why…
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Freedom and Purpose through Entrepreneurship with Ray Gillenwater | Stronger Is Better Podcast #6
1:07:35
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1:07:35Send us a text In this episode of the Stronger Is Better Podcast, Nick Delgadillo sits down with Starting Strength Gyms founder Ray Gillenwater for a wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, vision, and the founding story of Starting Strength Gyms. Ray shares how his experiences in tech, corporate leadership, and global markets led him to …
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Freedom Hunters: Combining The Great Outdoors With Veteran Outreach
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28:45In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Anthony Pace from Freedom Hunters. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Anthony Pace from Freedom Hunters, a nonprofit that takes veterans on life-changing outdoor adventures. From Colorado hunting roots to organizing global veteran hunts, Anthony shares how nature and …
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Grit and Resilience with Mike Kelly and Alex Ptacek | Stronger Is Better Podcast #5
1:39:23
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1:39:23Send us a text In this episode of the Stronger Is Better Podcast, host Nick Delgadillo speaks with Alex Ptacek, Head Coach at Starting Strength Chicago, and his trainee Mike Kelly. Mike shares the gripping and ultimately inspiring story of suffering a catastrophic quad injury—followed by multiple surgeries, setbacks, and an unwavering commitment to…
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David Merrill: How A Missed Opportunity Changed Bowhunting Forever
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39:30In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with David Merrill of Bow Spider. Learn why failure is just finding ways that don’t work (thanks, Edison) and how marketing can trump product perfection. Hear a wild 30-year regret about a missed patent opportunity, plus why launching now beats endless refinement. Discover how COV…
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Goals and Balance - A Woman’s Perspective with Erin Spiva | Stronger Is Better Podcast #4
1:15:36
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1:15:36Send us a text In Episode 4 of the Stronger Is Better Podcast, Nick Delgadillo sits down with long-time client and friend Erin Spiva to discuss six years of consistent barbell training, lessons learned, and how strength carries over into real life, including hobbies like pole fitness. Erin shares her journey from getting started to becoming a clien…
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Woody Morrisson: Building A Lifestyle Firearm Training Business
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37:15In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Woody Morrisson of VC Firearms Training, a firearms instructor with a unique, laid-back teaching style tailored to individual needs—especially women looking to defend themselves. Woody shares his journey from offering free training to building a niche "lifestyle business" tha…
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Michael Schwartz: From Banker To 2A Advocate
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41:00In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Michael Schwartz of San Diego County Gun Owners. Michael breaks down 15 powerful moments that shaped the early days of San Diego County Gun Owners. From bold leadership moves to major political victories, these highlights show how a grassroots movement turned into a regional …
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Programming the Overhead Press - Novice to Advanced | Stronger is Better Podcast #3
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59:10Send us a text In Episode 3 of the Stronger Is Better Podcast, Nick Delgadillo dives deep into press programming—how to build a strong, pain-free, and consistent overhead press. Drawing on years of coaching and real-world experience, Nick explains why the press is uniquely difficult to progress, how to apply the right amount of stress, how to avoid…
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How Strong Should You Be? | Stronger is Better Podcast #2
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51:18Send us a text In Episode 2 of the Stronger Is Better podcast, Nick Delgadillo breaks down strength standards into three categories: competitive goals, evaluative benchmarks, and personal targets. He explains why most people have skewed expectations about what’s possible—and how to set realistic goals without having to become a powerlifter. Nick in…
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Simplifying Advanced Programming | Stronger is Better Podcast #1
1:22:33
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1:22:33Send us a text Welcome to Episode 1 of the Stronger is Better Podcast, brought to you by Starting Strength Gyms and hosted by Nick Delgadillo. In this kickoff episode, Nick lays out a comprehensive roadmap for barbell programming — from the simple and powerful Novice Linear Progression all the way to advanced programming strategies used by experien…
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Introducing the Stronger is Better Podcast by Starting Strength Gyms
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1:37Send us a text Host and Starting Strength Coach Nick Delgadillo welcomes you to the Stronger is Better Podcast, a show where we'll take a look at how doing hard things has positive carryover to health, fitness, business, and relationships. ⸻ 🔗 Brought to you by https://www.startingstrengthgyms.com 🎧 New episodes every other week on YouTube, Apple P…
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Building A Sporting Goods Store With Good People - Tom Denniston
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26:04In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Tom Denniston of Fort Thompson Sporting Goods. From humble beginnings to a thriving sporting goods empire—Tom Denniston shares the incredible journey of building a store with good people, smart business moves, and a deep passion for hunting. From the rise of camo and deer sta…
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Building an FFL Business Fast! - Keenan Allemond
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34:53In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Keenan Allemond of Lateral Limits Works to talk about the challenges and triumphs of starting and running a firearms business. He shares his journey of finding a location, securing an FFL, and navigating inventory shortages during COVID. Keenan also dives into the importance …
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Tactical Headlines with John McCoy – MAR. 20, 2025
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33:46Discover the latest in firearms and gear on this episode! Christensen Arms is now a member of SAAMI! Plus, we take a look at Winchester’s innovative .21 Sharp cartridge—how it’s designed, loaded, and what makes it special. Don’t miss this deep dive into cutting-edge ammo technology!
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Using YouTube To Grow A Firearms Business - David Dorsey
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33:31In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with David Dorsey from D'Boss Firearms. David shares his journey of navigating FFL licensing, dealing with the ATF, and growing a YouTube channel to 100K+ subscribers. He discusses the challenges of fingerprinting, audits, and firearm sales, along with the impact of social media r…
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Building a 2A Business in Phases - Toby Leary
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43:38In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Toby Leary of Cape Gun Works. Toby shares the journey of building a firearms training and retail facility from the ground up. He discusses the challenges of location, financing, and industry competition while emphasizing customer service, community engagement, and persistence…
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Mike Barham From Galco Holsters: Building An Enduring Brand From The Ground Up
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36:45In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Mark Barham from Galco Holsters. Mike shares his journey from working various jobs to finding his passion in the firearms industry. Starting in customer service at a firearms importer, he later joined Galco Gunleather, where he worked his way up to Media & PR Manager over 21 …
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Fox Valley Shooting Range: How Mark Glavin Built A Range From Scratch (And What He Would Have Done Differently)
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35:09In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Mark Glavin from Fox Valley Shooting Range. Mark shares his journey from the corporate world to owning a gun range and retail store. From navigating business challenges to building a family-run team, he dives into the ups and downs of the industry. Learn how training, retail …
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Jeff Regnier with Kee Firearms: Opening A Brick And Mortar Gun Store In A High Regulation Environment
36:48
36:48
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36:48In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Jeff Regnier from Kee Firearms and Training. Jeff shares the inspiring story of how his business provided free firearms training to over 20,000 people in Chicago despite government pushback. From navigating strict regulations to fighting for their right to operate, Kee Firear…
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Rich Bruno: Building A Firearms Training Business One Client At A Time
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43:44In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Rich Bruno from RAB Firearms. Rich dives deep into the challenges of firearms training for law enforcement and civilians. He discusses the lack of hands-on training in agencies, the rise of private firearms coaching, and the dedication of civilians who train harder than some …
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Howards Premium Ammo: The Journey From Manual Reloading To A Full-Service Manufacturing Facility
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38:37In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Scott Howard and Aaron Welsh of Howards Premium Ammo. Scott and Aaron dive deep into their journey of building a top-tier ammunition business. From custom loading for law enforcement to mastering precision for hunters and competitive shooters, they share their expertise in am…
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Blaine Painter of Unknown Munitions: Precision Hunting, Load Development, and Bootstrapping Manufacturing Growth
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42:46In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Blaine Painter of Unknown Munitions. Blaine shares the growth journey of his precision rifle company, from expanding their machinery to becoming the Director of Operations. He delves into the meticulous process of load development, emphasizing the importance of systematic app…
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Mitch Barrie of Mesa Tactical: Niching down, the halo effect, and building a 2A manufacturing business
45:04
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45:04In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Mitch Barrie of Mesa Tactical. Mitch dives into the distinct challenges and perspectives of small businesses, especially in niche markets. He shares insights from his company’s journey in the tactical shotgun accessory industry, emphasizing the importance of quality over pric…
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High Country Armory: How Alec Henkelman went from part time gunsmith to full-time business owner
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51:16In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Alec Henkelman of High Country Armory.. Join Alec as he shares his journey from self-taught gunsmith to running a successful firearms business. Hear about his experiences with customer service, handling different firearms, and the importance of thinking like a gunsmith. Alec …
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Tactical Headlines with John McCoy – DEC. 26,2024
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46:25Discover the latest in firearms and gear on this episode! We dive into Pyramex's PPM1 Earmuffs, Bushmaster's 50th-anniversary rifles, Volquartsen's Mini Scorpion in .22 LR, and POF-USA's lightweight .308. Plus, explore the innovative 1911-9 DS from Military Armament Corporation. Whether you're into comfort, precision, or cutting-edge designs, this …
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Ward Brien Of Sniper Tools Co.: How One Invention Revolutionized Precision Shooting
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45:05In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Ward Brien of Sniper Tools Co.. Ward explains the science and technology behind long-range shooting, including the use of angle cosine indicators and ballistic software. He discusses how shooters must account for gravitational effects when adjusting for target distance, espec…
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Matty Nelson From Seekins Precision: Elite Strategies At Differentiating Your Business In A Crowded 2A Marketplace
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33:43In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Matty Nelson, a former Green Beret with 10 years in Special Forces, now thriving at Seekins Precision. From teaching elite military units to crafting top-tier firearms, Matty shares his journey of service, transition, and passion for precision shooting. Discover how Seekins d…
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Optimal Payment Setup For Sellers at Gun Shows & Tradeshows
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28:05In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Kyle King from TacticalPay. Discover the ultimate merchant solutions for tactical businesses! From mobile payment apps to sleek countertop units, TacticalPay offers tools designed to optimize trade shows and retail sales. Learn about the versatile P5 device, cash discount pro…
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Tactical Headlines with John McCoy – OCT. 31,2024
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42:20In Today's episode, we explore the latest firearm releases making waves. Kimber unveils the all-metal CDS9 CCW 9mm, while Savage Arms modernizes takedown rifles with the REVEL CLASSIC and REVEL DLX. Barrett introduces the SSRS for military use, enhancing squad support. Faxon Firearms supports Hornady’s .338 ARC with new barrels and uppers, and Brow…
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Ladies of Lead: How Sharon Marie Preston Empowers Woman At All Stages Of Their Firearms Journey
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33:14In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Sharon Marie Preston from Ladies of Lead. Sharon shares how she transitioned from training horses to empowering women through firearms education. Initially creating a Facebook group over 13 years ago, her classes quickly grew, and she soon opened a women-focused gun store. Sh…
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Brien Lemois from Green Mountain Sporting Goods: How to thrive in a high regulation environment
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31:17In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Brien Lemois. Brien discusses Green Mountain Sporting Goods' growth journey, from adding a gunsmithing section to expanding with a 7,000 sq. ft. location, and introducing a popular archery range. He touches on challenges faced due to state regulations, the impact of COVID-19,…
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Gear Review: Falco Holsters D633 L Sherman Leather Roto Holster
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31:05In today's episode, Wade and John dive into a detailed review of Falco Holsters, specifically the D6 33 L Sherman Roto shoulder holster. They share their hands-on experiences, from the practicality of shoulder holsters in daily life to how Falco’s design innovations, like adjustable cant and comfort, make it a standout choice. They also discuss how…
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Tactical Headlines with John McCoy – OCT. 3,2024
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48:28In today's episode of Tactical Headlines, we dive into the latest firearm gear updates! Tyrant Designs boosts your Glock 43X and G48 capacity, Streamlight enhances its TLR tactical lights, and CZ USA is launching the competition-ready Shadow 2 SA pistol. Plus, Trijicon's VCOG 1-8x28 is now the USMC's go-to optic, and there's an awesome deal on Leup…
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Long Range Shooters Of Utah: How Bryce Bergen Turned His Passion For Precision Shooting Into A Thriving Business
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42:46Long Range Shooters of Utah (LRSU) is a community-based organization focused on promoting long-range shooting. Initially formed as a Facebook group, it has since grown into a large community with over 12,000 Facebook members and 28,000 YouTube subscribers. LRSU aims to support shooters of all skill levels by providing resources, classes, and events…
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Jason Greenwood Consulting: Ecommerce Strategies For Highly Regulated Industries
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50:53In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Jason Greenwood from Greenwood Consulting. Jason explores how COVID-19 rapidly transformed B2B sales, pushing businesses to embrace digital solutions. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from traditional sales methods to e-commerce, particularly around managing produ…
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Tim and Sara from Ann Arbor Arms: How A Culture First Approach Creates A Competitive Edge
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44:12In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Tim and Sarah from Ann Arbor Arms. They discuss how their strong customer relationships set them apart from larger retailers. They share insights into creating a welcoming environment, their non-political approach to firearm sales, and how their niche in education and recreat…
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Tactical Headlines with John McCoy – SEPT. 5,2024
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48:06In this episode, we review the Silencerco Scythe-TI Lightweight Hunting Suppressor, perfect for hunters. We also cover Hoist Hydration sponsoring the U.S. Army Best Ranger and Sniper Competitions. Check out KelTec's new KSG410 and R50, plus Rock River Arms' latest ARs. Finally, we discuss Grace Engineering's acquisition of Montana Rifle Company and…
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