Best Nieman Podcasts (2026)

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Year of Travel in Review 2025 40:54

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12d ago40:54

40:54

As 2025 comes to a close, I’m looking back on a remarkable year in travel where I explored some new places in some old countries. In this Year of Travel in Review 2025, I’m sharing a high-level overview of where I traveled during the year — from England’s countryside and dramatic coastlines to iconic regions of France, with the Italian Dolomites, w…

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The Quietest Suppressor Ever? PTR’s PIP Tech Explained (ft. PTR) 48:04

17d ago48:04

48:04

This week, Kailey and John sit down with Bill from PTR. Learn how PTR is innovating with 3D-printed suppressors, diversifying into shotguns, and preparing for the future of gun ownership Plus, hear personal stories that reveal the passion behind the Second Amendment community. Whether you're a first-time gun owner or a seasoned enthusiast, this epi…

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Audio_Closing_Poem 4:03

11d ago4:03

4:03

Audio_Closing_Poem by Nieman Foundation for Journalism at HarvardBy Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard

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Derya’s Blueprint for Growth (ft. Derya USA) 41:50

20d ago41:50

41:50

This week, John and Kailey sit down with Dustin from Derya Arms to break down how the brand went from startup to U.S. manufacturing in under a year. Dustin shares his journey into the gun industry, why the DY9 has become one of the most underrated value pistols, and how Derya shifted 95% of DY9 production to Jacksonville, Florida while keeping pric…

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Rainbow Weather: Exploring Beautiful West Cork Ireland with Kat Koch 1:08:28

27d ago1:08:28

1:08:28

In this episode of the Wander Your Way Travel Podcast, Lynne sits down with author Kat Koch to dive into the magic, mystery, and everyday beauty of West Cork, Ireland — the place that inspired her memoir, Rainbow Weather: Stories from a Beautiful Nowhere. Kat shares how a childhood dream, sparked by a piece of film music, eventually pulled her acro…

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Photojournalist Stephanie Keith on documenting ICE and capturing a moment that became the cover of New York magazine 53:57

26d ago53:57

53:57

On the latest episode of the Nieman Storyboard podcast, photojournalist and Pulitzer Prize finalist Stephanie Keith joins Storyboard Editor Mark Armstrong to discuss her latest project, which became a powerful cover story for New York magazine: a series of photos taken in the corridors of 26 Federal Plaza in New York City, where undocumented immigr…

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This Is Exactly Why Governments Fear an Armed People (ft.PewPewJew) 47:25

1M ago47:25

47:25

This week on State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Yehuda Remer, an Orthodox Jew, Second Amendment Advocate, and author of "Safety On: An introduction to the world of firearms for children.” We cover real talk on gun culture, self-defense, and the mindset most people avoid. No ego, no BS, just the truth about being prepared. ----------…

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Can You Trust Paid Gun Reviews? (ft. Tactical Advisor) 51:09

30d ago51:09

51:09

This week on State of the Second, we sit down with Tactical Advisor, a SWAT sniper, deputy sheriff, and creator, to talk about balancing law enforcement, faith, and the 2A content grind. We cover honest reviews, YouTube censorship, influencer pay, and how to stay real in the firearms industry. ----------------------- Thanks to AAC Ammo & Palmetto S…

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Exploring the Sensational City of Strasbourg France 37:07

1M ago37:07

37:07

In this episode, we dive into the charm of Strasbourg — a city where French and German influences blend beautifully and every stroll feels like stepping into a storybook. It’s the perfect intro if you’re dreaming about visiting Strasbourg or just want a taste of what makes this Alsatian gem so irresistible. We start in UNESCO-listed Petite France, …

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How 3D Printing is Revolutionizing Firearm Design (ft. Angstdat Arms) 47:51

1M ago47:51

47:51

This week, John and Kailey sit down with Rich Angstadt, founder of Angstadt Arms, to talk firearm innovation. From roller-delayed PCCs and 3D-printed suppressors to the future of the NFA. Discover how tradition meets technology and why suppressors may soon be the new normal. ----------------------- Thanks to AAC Ammo & Palmetto State Armory for spo…

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Sasha Bonét on ‘leaving room for the story to shape itself’ and how a family home can become a character 1:00:40

2M ago1:00:40

1:00:40

Writer, author, and cultural critic Sasha Bonét joins Storyboard contributor Christina M. Tapper for a wide-ranging conversation about Bonét’s writing process for “The Waterbearers,” a memoir about mothers and daughters. Bonét and Tapper discuss surrendering to how a story unfolds, rather than forcing it, and how to turn a physical place into a key…

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Why Goat Guns Are More Than Just Mini Models (ft. Goat Guns) 38:38

1M ago38:38

38:38

This week, John and Kailey sit down with Anthony from Goat Guns to talk about how miniature firearms became a massive hit in the 2A world. From SIG collaborations to viral builds, Goat Guns are proving that even small-scale creations can make a big impact on gun culture. ----------------------- Thanks to AAC Ammo & Palmetto State Armory for sponsor…

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Soft Adventure: The Wonderful Mix of Nature and Culture with The Wilderness Group 1:05:10

2M ago1:05:10

1:05:10

In this episode, I chat with Patricia Doe from The Wilderness Group about the beauty of soft adventure travel — those immersive, outdoor experiences that blend nature, culture, and connection in the most meaningful way. Patricia shares her story (including what it was like growing up in a castle-turned-hotel!) and how The Wilderness Group designs s…

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The Privacy Starter Pack (That Actually Works) (ft. Mark37.com) 51:31

2M ago51:31

51:31

This week, John and Kailey sit down with Sean Patrick Tario, tech executive and co-founder of Mark37.com, to expose the truth about digital privacy, surveillance, and how Big Tech profits from your data. From iPhones that listen to every word to cars that track your every move, this is the reality they don’t want you to hear.-----------------------…

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The $20 Prep Everyone Overlooks (ft. Magic Prepper) 1:00:24

2M ago1:00:24

1:00:24

This week on State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Magic Prepper, a content creator who turned a life-changing moment into a mission of self-reliance. From surviving an armed attack to building a preparedness lifestyle, he shares the lessons he’s learned about staying ready, protecting family, and empowering others to do the same. ----…

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Tips for Finding Free and Inexpensive Things to Do in Europe 28:16

2M ago28:16

28:16

Traveling through Europe doesn’t have to drain your wallet. And honestly, some of the most memorable moments come from the free or nearly free experiences. In this episode, I’m sharing my favorite tips for finding free and inexpensive things to do in Europe, whether you’re wandering a big city like Paris or Rome, or exploring a small village in Ire…

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National Book Award finalist Claudia Rowe on writing about teens and the foster care system 56:26

2M ago56:26

56:26

On the latest episode of the Nieman Storyboard podcast, journalist Claudia Rowe joins Storyboard Editor Mark Armstrong to discuss her most recent book, “Wards of the State: The Long Shadow of American Foster Care,” which has been named a finalist for the 2025 National Book Awards. “Wards of the State” is a narrative nonfiction book told through the…

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The Story Behind America’s Most Patriotic Bourbon (ft. 2A Bourbon) 58:33

2M ago58:33

58:33

This week, John and Kailey sit down with Tim, founder of 2A Bourbon, a patriotic bourbon brand built to defend the Second Amendment and support veteran causes. Tim shares the powerful story behind the company’s founding, how bourbon and gun culture came together to fund real charitable impact, and why he donates every dollar of profit to organizati…

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What Really Kills Reliability: Friction, Springs, and Ejection Patterns (ft. Mitchell Defense) 53:53

3M ago53:53

53:53

This week, Kailey and John sit down with Nathan Mitchell, founder of Mitchell Defense, to dive into what makes a truly reliable AR. From his background in the military and oil field engineering to redefining “Mil-Spec,” Nathan shares how precision, durability, and smart design create rifles that perform when it counts. They also discuss everything …

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Exploring Astonishing Iceland with Monika Pronczuk: Beyond the Golden Circle 1:12:29

3M ago1:12:29

1:12:29

In this episode I chat with Monika Pronczuk, the adventurous traveler and creator of Plan Pack Explore, a go-to resource packed with Iceland travel tips and inspiration. Originally from Poland, Monika has found her true passion in Iceland — a place that captured her heart and changed her travels forever. She shares her top recommendations for first…

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Danyel Smith on developing taste as a writer and building confidence to tell your own story 1:02:10

3M ago1:02:10

1:02:10

On the latest episode of the Nieman Storyboard podcast, award-winning journalist, author, and producer Danyel Smith joins Storyboard contributor Christina M. Tapper to discuss building the confidence to tell her own story and being a model for others to do the same. Smith, the first woman and first Black person to serve as editor-in-chief of Vibe, …

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What Nobody Tells You About Micro Compacts (ft. CANIK) 1:20:03

3M ago1:20:03

1:20:03

This week, John and Kailey sit down with Adam Ruonala, VP of Business Development and Marketing of CANIK/Century Arms. They dive into the evolution of everyday carry pistols, the GOA x CANiK MC9 collaboration, and why the PRIME is packed with race-gun features. Adam also shares insights on the billboard fight in Oakland, what tariffs mean for gun o…

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Exploring Beautiful Ambleside: Hikes & History In The Lake District England 53:29

3M ago53:29

53:29

Exploring beautiful Ambleside in the Lake District, England is the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and rich history. Tucked at the northern edge of Lake Windermere, Ambleside is a charming village that offers some of the best walks in the Lake District along with fascinating stories from its past. In this episode, we set out on hikes like Todd Cra…

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Building the Citizen Defense Industry the Government Fears (ft. T-Rex Arms) 36:52

3M ago36:52

36:52

In this episode of State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Isaac Botkin of T.REX Arms to discuss freedom, firearms, and the future of innovation in the gun industry. Isaac shares the story of how T.REX Arms grew from a small business into one of the most recognized names in the 2A space. From holsters as the “business card of freedom” to…

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Michael Kruse & Bill Duryea: Lessons from a 16-year reporter-editor partnership 47:24

3M ago47:24

47:24

What makes an editor-writer relationship work? We sit down with a reporter and editor who have achieved something of a rarity in the news business — a 16-year partnership across multiple publications. Michael Kruse and his editor, Bill Duryea, first teamed up at the Tampa Bay Times (then St. Petersburg Times) in 2009. They moved together to Politic…

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Chasing Autumn: Where to See Fall Foliage in Europe 37:29

4M ago37:29

37:29

Autumn in Europe is pure magic. Forests blaze in shades of red and gold, vineyards glow against rolling hills, and crisp air makes every walk feel like a storybook moment. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the best of fall foliage in Europe, this episode is for you. I’ll take you to places where autumn truly comes alive — from the golden viney…

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The New Yorker's Sam Wolson on interactive storytelling about a mother and her trans teenager leaving the U.S. 59:54

4M ago59:54

59:54

The New Yorker’s Interactives Visual Features Editor Sam Wolson joins Storyboard Editor Mark Armstrong for a conversation about his latest story, “There’s No Place at Home: A Mother and Her Trans Teen Decide to Leave the U.S.,” about a mother and her trans teenager deciding to move to Mexico after President Trump’s efforts to restrict gender-affirm…

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This Organization Is Doing What the Government Won’t (ft. SOWW) 18:58

4M ago18:58

18:58

In this episode of State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Joel Pellici, co-founder of SOWW (Special Operations Wounded Warriors), a nonprofit transforming the lives of veterans through nature, brotherhood, and purpose. From wild pig hunts to life-changing service dogs, Joel shares unforgettable stories of resilience, healing, and the un…

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What If Ammo Worked Like Bitcoin? (ft. Bullet Vault) 55:37

4M ago55:37

55:37

In this episode of State of the Second, we sit down with Clay from Bullet Vault. He shares insights into his personal firearm preferences, his experience in the gun industry, and how his companies are responding to changes in the market. Throughout the conversation, Clay opens up about the cultural and political challenges facing the firearms indus…

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Discovering the Amazing Isle of Lewis and Harris • Scotland 43:14

4M ago43:14

43:14

There’s something irresistible about Lewis & Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides — an island that feels both timeless and alive. Here ancient history meets wild natural beauty. And life moves to a slower, more grounding rhythm. In this episode, I share the moments that made me fall head over hiking boots for Lewis & Harris. Standing among the Calan…

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Why Training Is an Investment in Your Life (ft. Tre’Von Barber) 40:30

4M ago40:30

40:30

In this episode, Kailey and John sit down with Trevon Barber from Right to Bear to talk all things training, competition, and responsible gun ownership. Trevon shares his journey from wrestling to firearms competition, how he built a career teaching others, and why proper education is just as important as owning a firearm. Trevon also discusses the…

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Gun Content Creator Exposes ATF Overreach (ft. Desk Pop) 41:32

5M ago41:32

41:32

In this episode of State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Desk Pop for an unfiltered conversation about gun culture, navigating restrictive states, and why the firearms community is seeing a cultural shift toward fun, welcoming, and engaging content. From working behind the gun counter to launching a thriving YouTube channel, to being d…

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Overtourism: What It Is, Why It Matters and How You Can Help 28:42

5M ago28:42

28:42

Overtourism isn’t just a travel buzzword — it’s a growing challenge that can impact the places we love most. In this episode, I break down exactly what overtourism is and how it changes a destination — from overcrowded streets to rising prices that push out locals. I share a personal story from my own life about how it affected a place I once calle…

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Mallary Tenore Tarpley on writing about eating disorders and navigating ‘the messy middle’ in recovery 55:17

4M ago55:17

55:17

Mark Armstrong sits down with Storyboard contributor and author-journalist Mallary Tenore Tarpley to discuss her new book, “Slip: Life in the Middle of Eating Disorder Recovery.” “Slip” is a reported memoir, with Tarpley recounting her own diagnosis and treatment for anorexia following the death of her mother from breast cancer when Tarpley was 11 …

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The Military Chose THIS Scope (ft. Vortex Optics) 32:31

5M ago32:31

32:31

Join John and Kailey this week for a jam-packed episode as we sit down with Mark from Vortex Optics to talk gear, hunting, and the Second Amendment. From his favorite all-around rifle scope to wild warranty stories, including optics run over by trucks and dropped off cliffs—Mark shares insider knowledge and real-world tips for choosing the right op…

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Why the World Is Watching American Gun Culture (ft. GunnyGal) 54:56

5M ago54:56

54:56

Join us this week as John and Kailey sit down with Alyssa (aka @TheGunnyGal) and her husband Tanner for a conversation that blends guns, cars, CrossFit, and content creation into one unstoppable lifestyle. In this episode, Alyssa shares her journey from being intimidated by firearms to becoming a confident 2A educator on YouTube. She and Tanner dis…

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Discovering Amazing Finland with Tarja Koivisto of Visit Finland 1:08:17

5M ago1:08:17

1:08:17

In this episode, we’re heading north to explore the magic of Finland with Tarja Koivisto of Visit Finland. From the stylish streets of Helsinki to the peaceful beauty of the archipelago, the sparkling waters of the Lakelands, and the snow-covered wonderland of Lapland, we’re covering all the highlights. And we'll talk about a few hidden gems that m…

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Pulitzer winner Lane DeGregory on the power of local storytelling 1:07:56

5M ago1:07:56

1:07:56

Mark Armstrong sits down with Lane DeGregory, the Pulitzer Prize-winning enterprise reporter for the Tampa Bay Times covering "hope and humanity." DeGregory, whose work has been featured frequently on Storyboard over the years, is now celebrating 25 years at the Tampa Bay Times. She takes us through her process — from connecting with the community,…

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Why Home Ranges Are the Future (ft. TCRT) 40:08

5M ago40:08

40:08

This week on State of the Second, Kailey and John sit down with Curt from TCRT Targets to talk about the future of range training, self-healing rubber targets, and why fun, flexible home setups are changing the game. Kurt shares his journey from firearms marketing to launching one of the most durable target lines on the market, explains why GOA’s l…

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My Amazing Favorite Sites in Europe You Need to Experience 51:33

6M ago51:33

51:33

Looking for travel inspiration that goes way beyond the typical bucket list? In this episode, I’m sharing my favorite sites in Europe. 12 unforgettable places that have wowed me, moved me and stuck with me long after the trip was over. From Neolithic stone circles in Ireland to ancient Greek ruins, from jaw-dropping cathedrals to iconic art, this l…

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Author Dana A. Williams on what Toni Morrison can teach us about editing 1:08:11

5M ago1:08:11

1:08:11

Storyboard contributor Christina M. Tapper sits down with Dana A. Williams, author of the new book “Toni at Random: The Iconic Writer’s Legendary Editorship,” for a conversation about Toni Morrison and her work as a trade editor at Random House, where she championed Black writers working in all genres and ultimately changed the publishing landscape…

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What It Takes to Become a Gunsmith in 2025 (ft. SDI) 49:25

6M ago49:25

49:25

Join us for a deep-dive conversation with Jarred from Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) on the State of the Second podcast! From the future of gunsmithing to the importance of hands-on training, Jarred shares what it takes to succeed in the firearms industry today. We talk shop about AR platforms, and why trade education is more vital than ever. Wheth…

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But is it Actually as Good as Live Fire Training? (Ft. Mantis) 47:22

6M ago47:22

47:22

In this episode of State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Grant from Mantis, the innovative minds behind some of the most advanced dry fire and training tools in the firearm world. From the Blackbeard AR trigger reset system to the upcoming Titan X training pistol and augmented reality environments, Mantis is pushing the boundaries of h…

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How To Connect With Europe Through Food with Angelo Carotenuto of LivTours 52:01

6M ago52:01

52:01

Want to go deeper than guidebooks and monuments? Try connecting with a place through your taste buds. In this episode, I chat with Angelo Carotenuto, founder of LivTours, about how to connect with Europe through food — one bite, one story, one unforgettable experience at a time. Angelo shares how food is more than just fuel when you travel. It’s a …

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Nadia Reiman on telling stories of immigration for ‘This American Life’ 1:11:13

6M ago1:11:13

1:11:13

“This American Life” reporter and editor Nadia Reiman joins Storyboard Editor Mark Armstrong for a conversation about immigration, mass deportation under Trump’s presidency, and finding the human stories amid ongoing raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Reiman has worked for “This American Life” since 2018, and in 2019, she was …

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What the Firearms Industry Gets Wrong About Women. (ft. Tracy Lee) 1:02:26

6M ago1:02:26

1:02:26

In this episode of State of the Second, Tracy Lee joins Kailey and John to share her wild origin story in the 2A space, why real training matters more than just posing with guns, and how to be taken seriously in this industry. She dives into the truth about censorship on social media, what it’s really like to be a female influencer in a male-domina…

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Meet the Founder who SOLVED Concealed Carry for Gym Shorts (ft. Arrowhead Tactical) 46:50

6M ago46:50

46:50

In this episode of the State of the Second Podcast, John and Kailey are joined by Alexander from Arrowhead Tactical — the brand that’s changing how we think about concealed carry apparel. From gym shorts to joggers, fanny packs to full-size pistols, Alexander breaks down what makes carry actually discreet… and where most people are giving themselve…

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Travel Mistakes to Avoid on Your Next European Trip 44:05

7M ago44:05

44:05

Planning a trip to Europe? Don’t let these common travel mistakes derail your adventure. In this episode, I’m breaking down the top travel mistakes I see some travelers make. And I'm going to offer up some tips on how you can avoid them. From overpacking and rushing through your itinerary to arriving at the wrong airport (yep, it happens!), these s…

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The Black List's Franklin Leonard on the power of 'Based on a true story' in Hollywood 54:27

6M ago54:27

54:27

The Black List founder and CEO Franklin Leonard joins Storyboard Editor Mark Armstrong for a conversation about the state of storytelling in Hollywood, and how true stories intersect with entertainment. Leonard was working as a development executive for Leonardo DiCaprio's production company when he started The Black List 20 years ago, first as a s…

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How WD-40 Can Ruin Your Gun! (ft. Otis Technology) 37:42

7M ago37:42

37:42

In this episode of the State of the Second John and Kailey are joined by Bill Cleftis, CEO of Otis Technology, to dive deep into the world of gun cleaning, CCW training, and what it’s really like to be a gun owner in post-Bruen New York. Whether you’re a seasoned 2A advocate or a new gun owner, this episode is packed with real talk, expert advice, …