Iron Sights

Welcome back to the Iron Sight Podcast. Today I’m in the studio with Cece and Ryan, and we’re digging into one of the most persistent myths in the fitness world: the repetition continuum. You’ve heard it before — heavy weights for strength, moderate reps for hypertrophy, and light loads for endurance. It’s simple, it’s clean… and it’s not really true.In this episode, we break down where that model came from, why it stuck around for so long, and what the current research actually says. We talk about some of the voices online influencing this conversation, and a well-known researcher who pretty much takes a sledgehammer to the old rep-range chart. We’re going to cover what really drives strength, growth, and endurance — and how to use that information to train smarter, adapt better, and get more out of the work you’re already doing.Enjoy the show!-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 Intro03:48 Fitness Myths05:26 Rep Continuum08:44 Industry Issues14:56 Practical Tips29:42 Hypertrophy Zone Myth33:35 Rep Basics39:07 Failure Training39:39 Programming47:56 Endurance MythsConnect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Today on the Iron Sites Podcast, I’m joined by Josh Burton — former Delta Force operator, entrepreneur, and founder of Elevated Operator. After a long career in the Global War on Terror, Josh has stepped into a new mission that’s just as demanding: fighting the global war on mental health.We get into his transition out of military service and the challenges operators, veterans, and first responders face when the uniform comes off. Josh speaks openly about the struggles, the blind spots, and the habits that can either support you or sabotage you. His honesty cuts through the stigma around mental health and performance in a way most people rarely hear.We also dig into the principles behind Elevated Operator, the company Josh built by veterans, for veterans, after realizing most available solutions weren’t enough. Instead of quick fixes, he focuses on real tools: dialing in your physiology, building better systems, surrounding yourself with the right people, and taking small steps in the right direction.This episode is for anyone who’s served, struggled, or simply wants to live a healthier, more intentional life. Josh brings depth, humility, and a ton of real-world experience to the table. Sit back and enjoy this powerful conversation with Josh Burton of Elevated Operator.Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:04:18 Sleep & Health00:06:09 Military Life00:09:43 Mental Struggles00:16:08 Transition Out00:28:35 Rebuilding00:37:10 Plant Medicine00:42:39 Accountability00:46:59 Fitness Return01:02:08 Support01:15:48 Lifestyle Fixes01:20:53 Sleep & Inflammation01:35:09 Elevated Operator01:52:55 Daily Routine02:12:14 Veteran SupportRed 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/

Intensity gets talked about a lot in the gym… but most people are using the word completely wrong. In strength and conditioning, intensity can mean different things depending on who you learned from, what sport you’re in, and what your training goals actually are.So in this episode, I’m back in the studio with the Red Dot Fitness crew to clear it all up. We break down what intensity really means, how we define it inside our programming, and how you should apply it so you’re training hard without training stupid.If you’ve ever looked at an intensity recommendation and weren’t totally sure what it meant—or if you’ve been guessing your way through your sessions—this conversation is going to save you time, effort, and a whole lot of frustration.Enjoy the show!-5% 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 Intro02:42 Intensity Basics03:42 Effort vs Intensity05:17 Applying It07:48 Balancing Effort10:15 Key Variables12:18 Testing & Adjusting13:39 Coaching Notes35:00 Mental Barriers42:54 Training Control53:38 Capacity ZonesConnect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Today on the Iron Sights Podcast I’m joined by Dustin Mowery of Mowery Tactical Concepts — a 27–year law enforcement veteran, long-time SWAT operator, team leader, instructor, and one of the most detail-oriented shooters I’ve had the chance to train with.I first crossed paths with Dustin at the 2025 Combatives Summit in D’Iberville, Mississippi, where he and my good friend Mark Smith were tag-teaming a dry fire block for the students. I’d heard about Dustin for years, but seeing him teach in real time told me everything I needed to know: this guy is a pro.In this episode we dig into Dustin’s story — from starting his career in a small agency, to moving into larger roles, special assignments, and ultimately spending two decades leading a SWAT team. We get into his time as an FTO, the lessons he learned from being responsible for developing officers, and how that experience shaped his approach to teaching firearms, tactics, and decision-making.You’ll hear how Dustin got bit by the competitive shooting bug, how he brought that skillset into his agency, and what happened when his training culture started shifting toward performance, accountability, and fundamentals done at a high level.We also talk about the dry fire work he and Mark put together, what separates good instructors from great ones, and why making every rep count is the hallmark of truly professional training — whether you’re a cop, a competitive shooter, or just somebody trying to become more capable.Sit back and enjoy this episode with Dustin Mowery of Mowery Tactical Concepts.Timestamps:00:00 Intro05:19 Dry Fire10:05 Law Enforcement14:18 Firearms Training21:08 Practical Shooting37:04 Basics Matter40:51 Training Gaps48:42 Competitive Shooting01:14:06 Training Solutions01:29:51 Community Policing01:42:13 Accountability01:53:41 Mowery TacticalRed 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 After Dark episode here on the Iron Sights Podcast. My guest today is Cliff Byerly — former U.S. Marine, LAPD Gang & Narcotics Officer, and founder of Hill Country Combatives.Cliff has spent decades immersed in high-risk environments — both in law enforcement and in training — and he’s one of those guys who brings a raw, unfiltered honesty to everything he does. I met Cliff out at the Combatives Summit 2025 in D’Iberville, Mississippi, and after missing the chance to sit down with him the year before, I wasn’t about to miss it again.In this episode, Cliff and I dig into his background, his time in the Marines and LAPD, and his mission with Hill Country Combatives — teaching realistic, force-on-force tactics to help law enforcement professionals survive high-stress encounters. We talk about training philosophy, mindset, and the hard truths about what it really takes to be effective in violent situations.Cliff doesn’t sugarcoat anything. He’s straightforward, opinionated, and deeply experienced. You’ll hear stories, lessons, and perspective from someone who’s lived it — both on the street and on the mat.If you’re into combatives, law enforcement training, or just honest conversations about performance and survival, this episode will hit home.Sit back and enjoy this After Dark conversation with my guest, Cliff Byerly of Hill Country Combatives.Timestamps:00:00 Intro04:17 Cliff’s Background08:04 LAPD Experience18:02 Law Enforcement Today28:41 Training Mindset38:60 Fitness & Growth46:45 Policing Evolution57:40 Grappling in Policing01:17:46 Lessons & Mindset01:29:29 Training Gaps01:47:15 Closing ThoughtsRed 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 After Dark episode here on the Iron Sights Podcast. My guest today is Jerry Wetzel, founder of Red Zone Threat Management Systems. Jerry’s a lifelong martial artist, gym owner, and educator whose mission is simple — to provide real training for real people to survive real violence.We sat down right after the Combatives Summit 2025 in Mississippi and got into everything from his philosophy on violence and self-defense to his experiences as a coach, business owner, and lifelong learner. In this conversation, we unpack the mindset and methodology behind Red Zone, the importance of realistic training, and how Jerry’s perspective is helping reshape how people think about personal protection. We also talk about his new journey into social media, why communication matters as much as combat skills, and how to stay grounded in a space that can often get weird or misunderstood.If you’re passionate about martial arts, combatives, or personal defense — or just want to hear from someone who’s constantly learning and evolving — you’ll get a lot from this one. Sit back and enjoy this After Dark episode with Jerry Wetzel of Red Zone Threat Management Systems.Timestamps:00:00 Intro03:32 Panel Challenges05:29 Jerry’s Background06:31 Evolution of Martial Arts12:47 Real-World Lessons16:46 Coaching & Self-Defense39:04 Coaches vs Instructors42:40 Gym Culture & Community51:06 Growth & Social Media01:05:07 Integrity & Openness01:24:03 Red Zone Program01:31:30 Instructor Development01:43:18 Combatives Community & ClosingRed 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/

We’re back in the studio for another episode of the Iron Sights Podcast, and today we’re asking a question that every athlete and coach should think about: does form really matter?In this conversation, the crew digs into how our experiences as coaches shaped the way we look at movement, form, and performance. We talk about where our ideas came from, how they’ve evolved, and why what you think you know about perfect form might not tell the whole story. Some of what we cover might challenge what you believe — and that’s exactly the point.If you’re serious about training smarter, recovering better, and actually getting stronger, this one’s for you. And if you need guidance or coaching, reach out anytime at reddotfitness.net or rdftrainonline.com — we’re here to help you take the next step in your fitness journey.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 Intro03:48 Certifications & Experience09:00 Education Challenges16:44 Experience vs Textbooks33:22 Adaptive Techniques46:42 Corrective Exercise Myths56:20 Role of a Coach01:14:31 Effort vs RecoveryConnect 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 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/