Army veteran and gunsmith Stephen Copp (Valley Forge Weaponry) sits down with Luke to unpack what it really means to “protect and serve” as a civilian dad in today’s climate. They cover Stephen’s path from the military to the bench, the COVID gun-buying surge, and why first-time owners absolutely must prioritize training, storage, and scenario-based reps over gear. Luke shares his six-step self-protection framework, avoid, de-escalate, run, fight, improvise, and only then draw. Stephen adds practical layers on close-quarters realities, safe habits at home, and the mindset of a consistent protector rather than a provocateur.

The conversation widens to culture and fatherhood: why speaking up for the Second Amendment starts with using the First, how community training days (“Nobody Is Coming to Save You”) build competence and calm, and why many public safety problems trace back to broken homes and a lack of strong male role models. The pair challenge men to lead with love, show up for their families, and train responsibly, because the most “manly” outcome is getting home safe. CLEAR!

Stuck, bored, hurting, addicted, broken? SCHEDULE THE CALL at lukekayyem.com

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🎙 Check out the entire FATHERS of the FUTURE Podcast playlist on Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/76IzWjkbQGc02f16SyFHsb

🎙 To connect with Stephen at Valley Forged Weaponry, check out www.valleyforgeweaponry.com.

Instagram: @valleyforgeweaponry

🎙 To connect with Stephen on YouTube, visit: /@valleyforgeweaponry