Iron Sights

In this After Dark episode of the Iron Sights Podcast, we’re joined by Rob Magao — a 25-year law enforcement veteran, SWAT leader, and founder of the Officer Survival Series. With experience in patrol, narcotics, internal affairs, detective work, and 18 years on SWAT, Rob has trained hundreds in local, state, and federal agencies, as well as the military. From defensive tactics and dignitary protection to ground fighting and firearms, his approach is rooted in real-world experience, not theory. A third-degree Gracie Jiu Jitsu black belt under Pedro Sauer and certified combatives instructor through Matt Larsen, Rob shares insights on building resilient, confident protectors through pressure-tested training.Sit back and enjoy a no-nonsense conversation on leadership, survival, and what it takes to thrive in high-stakes environments.Timestamps:00:00 Intro04:21 Rob Magao’s Martial Arts Journey05:52 Starting In Law Enforcement10:53 Challenges & Changes In Policing16:16 Innovations In Police Training30:04 Opening The Jiu-Jitsu School41:27 Bringing Jiu-Jitsu To Police Training45:15 Creating A New Training Program48:47 Program Success & Adoption51:55 Instructor Certification Standards01:09:19 Real-World Scenarios & Legal Training01:22:48 Growth Of Police Jiu-Jitsu Teams01:27:22 Key Skills For Law Enforcement01:31:41 Building A Culture Of Improvement01:40:59 Insurance’s Role In Training Standards01:50:21 How To Get Involved With OSS01:58:14 What’s NextRed 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/

In this episode of the Iron Sights Podcast, we’re diving into what it really takes to make online fitness coaching effective. Whether you’ve signed up for a virtual training program or are thinking about hiring a coach online, we break down the expectations, the red flags, and the strategies for getting real results. We’ll cover the pros and cons of online vs. in-person coaching, how to make the most of your investment, and what we’ve learned firsthand coaching both online and face-to-face. If you’re serious about your health and not seeing the progress you want, this conversation might just help you make the right call. Tune in and walk away with practical advice to look, move, and feel better.-25% OFF! Red Dot Fitness Programs: rdfprograms.comRed 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.com-Timestamps:00:00 Intro04:22 What Makes Online Coaching Different12:27 Why Customization Matters17:19 Nutrition & Initial Consults26:17 Flexibility And Accessibility34:31 Cost Benefits Of Online Coaching35:40 Common Pitfalls In The Industry39:10 Adapting Workouts To Any Environment44:02 Using Tech For Better Coaching51:36 Accountability & Long-Term Success58:10 Final Thoughts & Getting Started-Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

In this After Dark episode, I sit down with my friend and retired law enforcement officer John “Chappy” Chapman. After decades of service, John’s taken his experience and passion and poured it into Task Force 70, a nonprofit laser-focused on rebuilding public trust through constitutionally grounded training for America’s law enforcement.We break down how the system really works—from institutionalized training gaps to the funding issues that keep over 70% of small, rural agencies from getting the support they actually need. John brings clarity to a complicated conversation and outlines what TF70 is doing differently, including two standout courses that are already making an impact.This episode isn’t just for cops. It’s for citizens who care about the quality of training their officers receive and how we can raise the bar without political noiseEnjoy today's show!Timestamps:00:00 Intro04:42 Background In Law Enforcement06:31 Transition To Training & Instruction09:01 Challenges In Police Training14:52 Bureaucracy & Equipment Issues36:11 Foundational Skills In Modern Policing45:05 Federal Funding & Local Challenges48:56 Training Foundations & Sociological Shifts54:36 Practical Training & Foundation’s Mission01:04:55 Specialized Courses & Support01:17:41 Donors, Funding & Transparency01:26:48 Measuring Training Impact01:49:06 Final Thoughts & EncouragementRed 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 with another After Dark episode of the Iron Sights Podcast, and today I’ve got my good friend Jake Labhart in the studio—founder of In Extremis Performance.Jake’s been on the show before, and if you’ve been around a while, you’ve heard us talk about everything from tactical performance to the mindset behind building better tactical athletes. But today we zoom out a bit and focus on process—the journey of building IEP, refining the mission, and expanding the team.We talk leadership, team development, staying mission-focused, and staying humble while still moving with purpose. As always, Jake keeps it real, owns his mistakes, and delivers straight-up insight from the trenches.If you’re curious about what In Extremis Performance is doing, who they’re working with, or how to get involved—this episode is for you.Timestamps:00:00 Intro03:55 Catching Up In California04:28 IEP’s Shift To Human Performance05:16 Challenges In Law Enforcement Training08:06 Movement & Shooting Approach12:19 Learning, Adapting & Evolving17:58 Social Media Vs. In-Person Training21:12 Expanding Curriculum With Demand42:23 Training With Top Shooters & Team Growth47:56 Refining Curriculum & Teaching58:03 Shooting & Human Performance01:21:23 Support Systems & Strategy01:30:36 Industry Changes & Feedback01:48:09 What’s NextRed 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/

In this After Dark episode of the Iron Sights Podcast, I sit down with Jimmy Prendergast from Modern Athlete Strength. I’ve been following these guys for a while now, and if you’re into the training side of what we talk about here—especially in the tactical space—you’re gonna want to hear this.Jimmy and his team come from a deep background in D1 sports, the NFL, and tactical strength and conditioning. We get into all of it—his career path, how he approaches programming for athletes in complex environments, and what it actually means to train like an athlete when you’re balancing strength, speed, power, and capacity.We dig into the gray areas of what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid common traps when programming for concurrent training. This was a fun one for me—Jimmy’s sharp, knows his stuff, and breaks things down in a way that’s accessible for coaches and athletes alike.If you’re a first responder, military, or just someone who wants to train hard and smart—this conversation is packed with takeaways. Make sure to follow Jimmy and his crew over at @modernathletestrength and check out modernathletestrength.com for more.Timestamps:00:00 Intro06:52 Jimmy’s Background in Strength & Conditioning10:30 Tactical Training: Challenges & Adaptations23:18 Programming Philosophy & Concurrent Training38:24 Tier System & Efficiency47:00 CrossFit, Hybrid & Open-Minded Training48:45 Principles of Effective Programming52:25 Individualized Coaching & Adjustments01:00:22 Foundations vs. Advanced Training01:02:36 Online Coaching & Communication01:16:20 Science vs. Practical Application01:23:46 Networking & Lifelong Learning01:26:41 Final Thoughts & CollaborationRed 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 with another episode of the Iron Sights Podcast, and today I’m in the studio with Steven, Ryan, and CeCe to tackle a topic that comes up all the time with our clients — booze and performance.We’re breaking down the real impact alcohol has on your fitness, fat loss, recovery, and long-term goals. From the metabolic effects and how booze can stall fat loss, to the hormonal consequences, muscle recovery, and performance drops that most people ignore — we’re covering all of it.We also get into the increased injury risk, community and lifestyle considerations, and how alcohol might be showing up in ways that sabotage your progress more than you realize.This isn’t about fear tactics — it’s about being honest and intentional. Whether you’re chasing aesthetic goals, performance gains, or just trying to feel and function better, we share practical strategies for managing alcohol without completely derailing your progress.Enjoy the show!-25% OFF! Red Dot Fitness Programs: rdfprograms.comRed 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.com-Timestamps:00:00 Intro02:28 Love For Beer02:47 Alcohol’s Impact On Performance & Fat Loss04:01 Metabolism & Weight Loss Effects05:00 Personal Alcohol Struggles11:54 Hormones, Recovery & Dehydration27:10 Alcohol Vs. Immune Function28:00 Balancing Fitness & Drinking31:12 Practical Tips For Drinking Smart39:28 Choosing Alcohol Wisely43:15 Final Thoughts & Getting Help-Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

In this After Dark episode of the Iron Sights Podcast, I sit down with Jason—better known as Sierra One on Instagram and the founder of Silver Lake Special Projects.Jason’s background is deep. He’s a military veteran, a former SWAT team member with both large metro and interagency experience, and currently leads the training unit at his agency. But beyond the resume, he’s a guy who’s committed to doing things right—leaving his environment better than he found it.We get into a wide range of topics in this one: tactical training, leadership culture inside agencies, career progression, the complexities of interagency teams, and how to build buy-in within your unit. Whether you’re in the job, thinking about the job, or just interested in what it takes to lead from the front, you’ll get value here.Enjoy today's show!Timestamps:00:00 Intro05:46 Jason’s Background & Career Start16:16 Transition To Law Enforcement & SWAT31:23 Competitive Shooting & Career Shift42:41 Multi-Jurisdictional SWAT Challenges47:00 Leadership, Structure & Team Dynamics52:00 Inclusion, Mentorship & Team Building01:02:40 Training Philosophy & Skill Development01:16:08 Autonomy & Improvement In Training01:32:36 Tactical Training & Traffic Stops01:39:04 Low-Visibility Ops & Tactical Shifts01:48:57 Human Trafficking & ICAC Missions02:08:44 Final Thoughts & Looking AheadRed 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/

In this episode of the Iron Sights Podcast, we’re getting into the weeds on plyometric training — what it is, who it’s for, and most importantly, how not to screw it up.Too many people are using plyos as a glorified cardio session, skipping the prep work and ending up hurt, frustrated, or spinning their wheels. We talk about what needs to be in place before you start jumping on boxes — foundational strength, mobility, coordination, and proper warm-up protocols.We also dig into why quality matters more than quantity, how to actually integrate plyos into your training to build real power, and why understanding your physical readiness is key. We use some real-world examples, including insights from pro sports like the NBA, along with our own coaching experiences.Enjoy the show!-25% OFF! Red Dot Fitness Programs: rdfprograms.comRed 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.com-Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:32 Plyometrics & Injury Prevention01:53 Training Mistakes & Injury Causes06:02 Warmups & Plyometric Fundamentals20:31 Key Warmup Phases Explained34:26 Deceleration & ACL Risks35:08 Advanced Plyos & Power Development38:49 Common Plyometric Mistakes56:19 Footwear’s Role In Performance01:00:11 Plyos For Different Ages01:05:54 Recommendations-Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

In this After Dark episode of the Iron Sights Podcast, I sit down with Shelton Stevens, a seasoned strength coach and human performance specialist for U.S. Army Special Operations at Fort Bragg. With over 16 years in the game, Shelton is helping elite American warfighters stay sharp, strong, and durable.We dive deep into microdosing workouts—short, effective training sessions designed for high performers who need results without burnout. Shelton breaks it all down in a way that’s simple and usable, whether you’re in the military, law enforcement, or just training hard in the real world.We also get into 13 Bar Performance, his coaching platform helping people train smarter with both custom and pre-built programs.Packed with takeaways for anyone looking to perform better and stay mission-ready. Tune in and enjoy the conversation.Timestamps:04:42 Introduction & Guest Welcome06:46 Breaking Into Strength & Conditioning10:49 Transition To Military Training14:52 Challenges In Military S&C24:17 Individualized Programs & Athletes31:48 Bootcamp & Selection Process37:32 Concussion Protocol & Testing39:18 Common Training Mistakes41:26 Importance Of Force Plates48:35 Personalized Athlete Programming54:45 Microdosing Training Sessions01:05:49 Velocity-Based Training01:10:13 Mobility & Stability Focus01:15:32 Overhead Movement Considerations01:38:00 Training-Life Balance01:42:22 Consistency & LongevityRed 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. I’m in the studio today with Ryan, Cece, and Steven, and we’re diving into a topic that’s guaranteed to hit home for anyone trying to lean out, cut weight, or make meaningful changes to their body composition: managing hunger while in a caloric deficit.Let’s be real—hunger is part of the process. If you’re doing things right in a fat loss phase, there’s going to be a point where you’re feeling it. But how you respond to that feeling? That’s what separates the people who reach their goals from the ones who fall off halfway through.This conversation is all about giving you practical, experience-based strategies for managing that hunger so you can stay on track without feeling like you’re constantly battling your own body-25% OFF! Red Dot Fitness Programs: rdfprograms.comRed 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.com-Timestamps:00:00 Intro02:18 Diet & Nutrition03:05 What Is A Caloric Deficit04:26 Managing Hunger09:19 Prioritizing Protein13:53 Fiber’s Role23:41 Meal Timing26:05 High-Volume Foods27:14 Staying Consistent32:57 Training Adjustments36:36 Liquid Calories40:42 Carbs Vs. Fats42:52 Key Supplements45:30 Exiting The Deficit-Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/