Iron Sights

Welcome back to another After Dark episode of the Iron Sights Podcast. My guest today is my good friend John Valentine, who officially holds the record for the most appearances on the After Dark series. John’s been part of the show since the early days — from his philosophy on combatives and coaching to his role in shaping the Combatives Summit into one of the most respected gatherings in the training community.In this conversation, we debrief the 2025 Combatives Summit, recorded just a day after John returned from the event. We talk about what went down on the mats, the lessons learned, and how collaboration—not competition—drives progress in the combatives world. John also shares updates on his journey as a BJJ black belt, match director, and instructor, diving deep into his process, growth, and approach to teaching. If you care about performance, mindset, and purpose in training, you’ll take a lot from this one.Timestamps:00:00 Intro04:51 Summit Recap06:13 Training Mindset10:49 Facing Fear18:17 Realistic Scenarios40:55 Instructor Highlights50:30 Personal Updates55:29 Continuous Learning01:07:50 Future PlansRed Dot Fitness Training Programs:rdfprograms.comOnline Membership (Full Access To All Programs & Virtual Coaching):https://www.reddotfitness.net/online-membershipVirtual Coaching:https://www.reddotfitness.net/virtual-coachingSelf-Guided Programs:https://www.reddotfitness.net/Self-Guided-Programs1Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Welcome back to another Iron Sights Podcast! I’m joined once again by the crew to dig into one of the most underrated tools in training — medleys. In this episode, we break down what medleys are, how to structure them, and the science behind why they’re so effective for building real-world strength and endurance. We’ll share practical examples for both gym and unconventional setups, plus tips to help you train smarter, not just harder. Whether you’re already using medleys or you’ve never tried one before, you’ll walk away with new insights to improve your performance, recovery, and overall capacity as an everyday athlete.25% OFF! Red Dot Fitness Programs: rdfprograms.comFFA Program:  https://reddotfitness.net/fitforactionRed Dot Fitness Training Programs:rdfprograms.comOnline Membership (Full Access To All Programs & Virtual Coaching):https://www.reddotfitness.net/online-membershipVirtual Coaching:https://www.reddotfitness.net/virtual-coachingSelf-Guided Programs:https://www.reddotfitness.net/Self-Guided-Programs1(NEW) Iron Sights Podcast Website:ironsightspodcasts.comTimestamps:00:00 Intro03:24 Intro to Capacity03:55 Medley Basics07:25 Safe Training21:20 Medleys vs Circuits43:36 Practical Examples52:42 Building Progress01:15:30 Key Benefits01:21:29 Wrap-UpConnect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Welcome back to another After Dark episode here on the Iron Sights Podcast. My guest today is Chris Urrutia from Vortex Optics and the Vortex Edge training team. Chris and I first met a few years back, and I’ll be honest—our time together on the range left a lasting impression. There was something about the way he approached his craft, his students, and his mindset that told me I had to get him on the show someday.In this episode, we dig into Chris’s story—his upbringing, his career in the military and law enforcement, and how those experiences shaped the way he trains and lives today. We get into his time as a competitive shooter, his philosophy on training with purpose, and what it takes to find balance between performance, business, and life.Chris is one of those guys who doesn’t just talk about discipline—he lives it. This one has lessons that go far beyond the range, and I think you’ll walk away with a few things to reflect on. So sit back and enjoy this After Dark conversation with Chris Urrutia from Vortex Optics here on the Iron Sights Podcast.Timestamps:00:00 Intro05:32 Early Life & Marines09:48 Law Enforcement Start22:00 Policing in Charlotte30:37 Joining SWAT Team35:30 Competitive Shooting39:12 Building SPECT Train47:53 Joining Vortex Edge01:05:22 Inside Vortex Edge01:09:26 Masterclass Journey01:16:20 Competition & BalanceLink to more info on our Warranty!:https://vortexoptics.com/vip-warranty VORTEX SOCIAL HANDLES:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vortexoptics/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/vortexoptics X:  https://x.com/vortexoptics Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vortexoptics Red Dot Fitness Training Programs:rdfprograms.comOnline Membership (Full Access To All Programs & Virtual Coaching):https://www.reddotfitness.net/online-membershipVirtual Coaching:https://www.reddotfitness.net/virtual-coachingSelf-Guided Programs:https://www.reddotfitness.net/Self-Guided-Programs1Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Discover the power of heart rate zone training based on lactate threshold! Learn how to personalize your workouts for maximum efficiency and recovery. Dive into the science behind conditioning, including the importance of stroke volume and oxygen delivery. Explore the five-zone training model, from recovery to high-intensity sprints, and find out how to effectively structure your training week. Plus, gain insights into testing your own lactate threshold and monitoring progress for improved performance. Get ready to train smarter!

Welcome back to another After Dark episode here on the Iron Sights Podcast. My guest today is Justin Li, former law enforcement officer and co-founder of QORE Performance. QORE Performance builds thermoregulation solutions designed to enhance human performance, and today we’re digging into how it all started. Justin shares the story of how he and his partner, J.D. Wilcox, set out to solve a complex physiological problem with a surprisingly simple idea — helping people cool or heat their bodies in ways that actually improve output, endurance, and recovery.We talk through the science, the research, and the real-world applications behind products like the IcePlate and IceVents, and how these tools are used by military, law enforcement, and athletes alike. Whether you’re on duty, training hard, or just looking to perform better for longer, this conversation dives deep into the physiology of heat, cold, and performance. There’s a little product showcase, a lot of nerding out, and plenty of takeaways you can apply right away. Sit back and enjoy this After Dark episode with Justin Li of QORE Performance here on the Iron Sights Podcast.Timestamps:00:00 Intro07:12 Justin’s Background08:01 Core Story15:04 Early Lessons20:24 Performance Focus27:05 Military Use43:28 Cooling Science49:24 Hypothermia55:19 Teamwork59:52 Industry Impact01:11:03 Innovations01:27:17 Plate Carrier01:39:57 Gen 3 Reveal01:48:48 Civilian Use02:04:33 Philosophy & WrapRed Dot Fitness Training Programs:rdfprograms.comOnline Membership (Full Access To All Programs & Virtual Coaching):https://www.reddotfitness.net/online-membershipVirtual Coaching:https://www.reddotfitness.net/virtual-coachingSelf-Guided Programs:https://www.reddotfitness.net/Self-Guided-Programs1Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Welcome back to another episode of the Iron Sights Podcast with the crew from Red Dot Fitness. Today we’re diving into one of the most underutilized yet powerful training methods out there — cluster sets. Most lifters stick to straight sets like 3x10 or 5x5, but cluster sets can be a game changer when it comes to improving strength, power, and muscle growth without adding junk volume. We break down what they are, how to set them up, and when to use them depending on your specific goals.As always, we bring some practical, real-world insight into how to implement these methods in your own training without overcomplicating things. Whether you’re chasing more power, muscle endurance, or just looking to get more out of your time in the gym, this episode is for you. 25% OFF! Red Dot Fitness Programs: rdfprograms.comFFA Program:  https://reddotfitness.net/fitforactionRed Dot Fitness Training Programs:rdfprograms.comOnline Membership (Full Access To All Programs & Virtual Coaching):https://www.reddotfitness.net/online-membershipVirtual Coaching:https://www.reddotfitness.net/virtual-coachingSelf-Guided Programs:https://www.reddotfitness.net/Self-Guided-Programs1(NEW) Iron Sights Podcast Website:ironsightspodcasts.comTimestamps:00:00 Intro04:11 Cardio & Conditioning05:04 Strength & Hypertrophy07:16 Cluster Sets Intro10:37 Using Cluster Sets17:08 Programming Tips33:09 Volume & Intensity36:27 Power Training46:32 Benefits for Lifters54:07 RDF Max ProgramConnect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Welcome back to the Iron Sights Podcast. I’m in the studio today with CeCe and Ryan, and we’re diving into how to build real power in the gym—without Olympic lifts or endless box jumps.A lot of people think power training is reserved for elite athletes or requires advanced lifts like cleans and snatches. While those are great tools, the truth is you can develop explosive strength and speed in safer, more practical ways that work for everyday lifters.We’ll break down the key principles of power development, how to program it effectively, and how to train for explosive results without fancy tools or velocity-based devices. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or just someone who wants to move better and stronger, this episode will give you a clear roadmap for building power that lasts.25% OFF! Red Dot Fitness Programs: rdfprograms.comFFA Program:  https://reddotfitness.net/fitforactionRed Dot Fitness Training Programs:rdfprograms.comOnline Membership (Full Access To All Programs & Virtual Coaching):https://www.reddotfitness.net/online-membershipVirtual Coaching:https://www.reddotfitness.net/virtual-coachingSelf-Guided Programs:https://www.reddotfitness.net/Self-Guided-Programs1(NEW) Iron Sights Podcast Website:ironsightspodcasts.comTimestamps:00:00 Intro03:41 Lifting Challenges04:35 Common Misconceptions05:12 Power Training Methods07:35 Training For Longevity08:23 Training With Intent26:61 Force Development34:18 Coordination & Timing37:04 Daily Performance Adjustments41:27 Recovery & Adaptation47:57 Warm-Up Techniques55:13 Power Tools01:02:53 Choosing ProgramsConnect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Welcome back to another After Dark episode here on the Iron Sights Podcast. Tonight, I’m hanging out with Erik Grohmann, a former U.S. Marine infantryman who found his passion for fitness and nutrition while serving and then went on to earn a master’s in nutrition and dietetics. These days Erik is the nutrition coach over at Modern Athlete Strength Systems, where he works with law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, military members—and really anyone who wants to perform at a higher level.We get into the fundamentals of human performance: the common nutrition mistakes people keep making, what actually works versus the trendy quick fixes, and the practical steps you can take to start seeing results right now. Eric also talks about how his Marine Corps background shaped his no-nonsense approach and why he launched Grunt Grubb to help clients cut through the noise. If you’re tired of diet confusion and ready for straight talk that actually delivers, you’ll want to stick around for this one.Timestamps:00:00 Intro05:59 Marines to Nutrition11:25 Dietetics Career15:14 Launching Modern Athlete19:15 Coaching Hurdles36:28 Common Issues51:38 Fitness Goals53:48 Calories & Macros56:42 Fiber & Micros58:43 Long-Term Habits01:04:41 Carbs & Performance01:25:32 Field Tips01:38:23 Meal Planning01:43:00 Personalized Coaching02:03:45 Modern Athlete ServicesRed Dot Fitness Training Programs:rdfprograms.comOnline Membership (Full Access To All Programs & Virtual Coaching):https://www.reddotfitness.net/online-membershipVirtual Coaching:https://www.reddotfitness.net/virtual-coachingSelf-Guided Programs:https://www.reddotfitness.net/Self-Guided-Programs1Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Welcome back to the Iron Sights Podcast! I’m back in the Red Dot Fitness studio with Ryan and CeCe to tackle a hot topic that’s all over the internet right now: the clash between science-based training and so-called “bro science.” We break down what exercise science research really tells us—and where it often gets taken out of context—so you can make smarter decisions about your own training. We also share practical best practices for applying both evidence-based principles and time-tested gym wisdom, so you can find the sweet spot between research and real-world results. Whether you’re a coach, a serious lifter, or just curious about the science behind your workouts, this episode gives you the tools to bridge the gap and train with confidence.25% OFF! Red Dot Fitness Programs: rdfprograms.comFFA Program:  https://reddotfitness.net/fitforactionRed Dot Fitness Training Programs:rdfprograms.comOnline Membership (Full Access To All Programs & Virtual Coaching):https://www.reddotfitness.net/online-membershipVirtual Coaching:https://www.reddotfitness.net/virtual-coachingSelf-Guided Programs:https://www.reddotfitness.net/Self-Guided-Programs1(NEW) Iron Sights Podcast Website:ironsightspodcasts.comTimestamps:00:00 Intro02:48 Exercise Science & Gaps03:15 Cece’s Background05:12 Qual vs. Quant Research06:31 Research Realities08:47 Practice Challenges17:45 Grad Students’ Role20:11 College Study Limits22:44 Bro Science vs. Academia29:58 Blending Science & Practice30:40 Cake Analogy32:28 Real-World Training33:54 Individual Coaching36:40 Science & Experience41:13 Picking the Right Program45:50 Middle Ground Training54:21 Choosing a CoachConnect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Welcome back to another After Dark episode of the Iron Sights Podcast. My guest today is Phil Downs, partner at Cholakian & Associates, former U.S. Marine Infantry Platoon Commander, and seasoned civil defense litigator. Our conversation goes well beyond report writing. We dig into the nuances of use of force, the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments, and the non-uniformity of the U.S. judiciary system. Phil breaks down how legal language is frequently misunderstood, misapplied, and how those misunderstandings play out on our streets and in our courtrooms. Whether you’re a law enforcement professional, a legal enthusiast, or a citizen who wants to better understand and protect your rights, this episode delivers a roadmap to strengthen both your knowledge and application of constitutional protections. Share this with friends, family, or anyone who values the importance of clear understanding of their rights.Timestamps:000:00 Intro07:43 Guest Background12:62 Reporting Challenges20:23 Legal & Training Gaps36:32 Case Studies44:25 Hesitation & Decisions50:09 Gadget Reliance57:29 Crowd Control Issues01:01:03 Better Training01:07:07 Innovation & Mental Health01:16:21 Context & Communication01:21:04 Report Writing Tips01:34:50 Accurate Reporting01:43:54 Law & Society01:47:28 Closing RemarksRed Dot Fitness Training Programs:rdfprograms.comOnline Membership (Full Access To All Programs & Virtual Coaching):https://www.reddotfitness.net/online-membershipVirtual Coaching:https://www.reddotfitness.net/virtual-coachingSelf-Guided Programs:https://www.reddotfitness.net/Self-Guided-Programs1Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/