

Iron Sights
Iron Sights
Welcome to Iron Sights podcast hosted by Scott Howell. This podcast candidly seeks to create opportunities and deliver impact by sharing the experiences and wisdom of successful entrepreneurs and thought leaders who unapologetically aim to WIN in health, fitness, business, and life. Welcome to old school meets new school, tradition meets innovation, and imperfection meets excellence. Thanks for listening and enjoy the show.
Episodes
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Jan 27, 2023 • 1h 45min
#52 After Dark - From Combat To Business: Naval Special Warfare, Sniper School & Founding Bruiser Industries with Joe Dawson
Welcome to another After Dark episode! We're kicking off January with some incredible guests. As you heard last week, I recently attended SHOT Show and had the chance to connect, meet & learn from some incredible people within the industry. For today's episode, I sat down with Joe Dawson from Bruiser Industries. We discuss his journey from "awkward kid" to Sniping Instructor. I really enjoyed this conversation - he brings a lot of energy to the table. We discuss his background including: BUDs, Naval Warfare, writing for firearms magazines, the SEAL trident & founding Bruiser Industries as well as the reason WHY he chose that name. If you're a long time listener, you might remember my past conversation with Chris Kuras with Condition One which is linked below - he made the introduction and sat in on this one. It was a pleasure having two legends in the room and I hope you enjoy this one.Watch The Interview with Chris Kuras: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAdytl-3RIY&list=PLTcz2FTYO7osIME5pD7Bi4GOVmS9Wu4my&index=10&t=2458sTimestamps:00:00 Where's The Beard03:45 Joe's Background21:26 Most Navy SEAL Podcasts22:04 Writing For Gun Magazines29:09 Joe's Approach To Sharing Information32:50 Sift Through The B.S.35:38 The Coaches Coach41:55 The $600 Mistake46:29 What Matters More Than Anything52:03 Handling Criticism As A Coach59:20 How Joe Approaches His Personal Brand1:05:53 Monetizing The Trident1:15:18 The Choice To Become A SEAL1:18:47 How To Prepare For Competition Shooting1:27:20 What To Know About Bruiser Industries1:36:08 How To Take A Class with JoeRed Dot Fitness Training Programs: https://www.rdftrainonline.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/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ironsightspodcast

Jan 23, 2023 • 1h 3min
#81 - Do It Yourself: Achieve Optimal Strength, Increase Power & Improve Your Physique with RDF MAX
Today, CeCe and I are talking about Red Dot Fitness (RDF) Max. This self-guided program is designed for the active fitness enthusiast looking to achieve optimal strength, power and improve their physique. This do-it-yourself program goes beyond the traditional squat, bench and deadlift exercises commonly found in other programs, check out RDF Max at rdfmax.comTimestamps:00:00 RDF Max Program Overview10:16 Let's Get Specific12:04 Principles of Specificity 17:09 Why Should People Do RDF Max?21:00 Equipment Needed23:51 Phase 123:32 Phase 2 33:53 Deload 37:12 Phase 343:54 Phase 451:39 Post Activation Potentiation Go to rdfmax.com to get started today!Red Dot Fitness Training Programs: https://www.rdftrainonline.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/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ironsightspodcast

Jan 19, 2023 • 1h 35min
#51 After Dark - Rights In The Crosshairs: Your Constitutional Rights vs. The Government with Cody Wisniewski From Firearms Policy Coalition
Welcome back to iron Sights After Dark! This is the first of 7 episodes we're dropping from a Vegas suite at SHOT SHOW 2023. I had the honor to sit down with Senior Litegator Cody Wisniewski from The Firearms Policy Coalition. Cody dives deep into his background in this episode. Wisniewski earned his B.A. in Joint Honours Classics and Philosophy from the University of Ottawa and discussed briefly living in Canada during this episode. He then graduated from the University of San Diego School of Law. While at the University of San Diego, Cody served as Federalist Society President, Vice-Chair of National Teams for the Appellate Moot Court Board, and an Executive Board member for the San Diego International Law Journal. He regularly speaks to industry groups, law students, and everyday Americans about the Constitution and his work and it was a first on the show to actually sit down with an attorney.When it comes to working with the FPC, Wisniewski has already worked on a number of cases, including Sullivan vs. Ferguson, California vs. ATF, Syracuse vs. ATF, and led the FPC's victory against New Mexico’s Aragon v. Grisham.To reat the full referenced story on Cody click here.About The FPC taken from their website: Firearms Policy Coalition (firearmspolicy.org) is a 501(c)4 nonprofit organization founded on a philosophy of natural rights with an unambiguous Purpose, consistent Values, and clear Mission to fight for the People, liberty, and freedom. FPC’s efforts are focused on the right to keep and bear arms and adjacent issues including freedom of speech, due process, unlawful searches and seizures, separation of powers, asset forfeitures, privacy, encryption, and limited government. The FPC team are next-generation advocates working to achieve the Organization’s strategic objectives through litigation, research, scholarly publications, amicus briefing, legislative and regulatory action, grassroots activism, education, outreach, and other programs. FPC typically has members and supporters in all 50 U.S. States and the District of Columbia.FPC Law (FPCLaw.org) is the nation’s first and largest public interest legal team focused on the right to keep and bear arms and the leader in the Second Amendment litigation and research space.Timestamps:00:00 The Bruen Case 04:19 Gun Control Laws09:22 When Did Laws Start And The Negative Effects14:40 The FPC19:09 Being An Attorney 22:49 How The FPC Works28:53 The Current Situation39:18 The Anti Gun Perpective & The Government44:20 The People We Fight For55:35 How Can People Support The Organization01:01:24 What Is The FPC01:03:55 Cody's Background 01:10:00 A Day In The Life 01:15;41 What Cody Is Working On01:21.44 Social Media 01:25:50 What Is Coming Red Dot Fitness Training Programs: https://www.rdftrainonline.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/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ironsightspodcastFollow Cody:Instagram: @thewizardoflawz

Jan 16, 2023 • 60min
#80 - Nootropics For Optimal Brain Function
What is the secret to better brain function? Is there a naturally-occurring compound that can enhance cognition, mental sharpness and create a heightened sense of wellbeing?Today I have CeCe, Jeff and one of our nutrition coaches, Stephen Brenna in the studio to talk all things NOOTROPICS. How can we boost our nootropic intake naturally, and what kind of nootropic-containing supplements are available on the market? We'll go deep into these questions and also address what nootropics can do for you, who should use them and how to take them. SPOILER ALERT: As far as we're concerned, everyone should be including nootropics in their health & fitness plans ;)Time Stamps00:00 Intro04:55 Intro To Nootropics07:35 Natural vs Synthetic Cognitive Enhancement13:00 Alpha GPC19:17 Lion's Mane 24:46 Supplement Hype Reality Check29:57 The Brain Liver Gut Trifecta33:46 L-Tyrosine39:59 Ginkgo Biloba46:50 Racetams49:39 Stephen's Nootropic Experimentation55:44 The Role of NootropicsRed Dot Fitness Training Programs: https://www.rdftrainonline.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/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ironsightspodcast

Jan 13, 2023 • 2h 12min
#50 After Dark - Boots On The Ground In Ukraine: Providing Critical Disaster Relief To Those In Need with Mark Turner
Mark Turner is a former U.S. Marine, owns a BJJ school and is the founder of the Overwatch Foundation. His foundation recruits, trains and deploys highly trained former special operations military veterans to areas of disaster to provide critical disaster relief and high value humanitarian support to those in times of crisis. Some of their work occurs right here in the U.S. but in this conversation we cover his trips abroad. Mark has traveled to Ukraine 5 times with his crew. His story is compelling, and he has a different perpective having had boots on the ground. So if you have been wondering what is really going on in Ukraine you are going to want to listen to this podcast.Timestamps:00:00 Mark Turner Bio 01:58 Background 07:18 How The Overwatch Foundation Started17:09 Biggest Problems In The Job25:08 The Florida Trip 32:17 The Overwatch Crew37:56 On The Ground In Ukraine49:14 Strategies01:05:51 Military Missions01:12:33 Tactics During The Mission 01:16:47 Training The Ukrainian Army01:25:35 The Current Ukraine Situation 01:37:22 Basic Supplies 01:50:22 What Has To Happen For A Change In Ukraine 01:57:57 What Is Next For The Overwatch Foundation02:03:15 How To Reach Out And Get InvolvedRed Dot Fitness Training Programs: https://www.rdftrainonline.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/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ironsightspodcastAbout The Overwatch Foundation: https://www.overwatchfoundationusa.org/The Overwatch Foundation was born from Mark Turner’s boundless desire to help. As a former Marine, and combat veteran from Operation Iraqi Freedom, Mark was called to use his skill to volunteer to offer humanitarian aid where needed. The initial mission, even before the Overwatch Foundation was formed, occurred when Hurricane Ida hit Louisiana in late 2021. Then Mark and the team mobilized to assist with the Afghan refugees. This work planted the seed for a structured organization that could be called upon regularly to respond in times of natural disasters or humanitarian crises.The Overwatch Foundation was officially established when Mark Turner found himself being driven to help once more. This time the call was an international mission to Ukraine. Mark's good friend and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu student Yuri is a native of the now war torn country. A couple of days after the Russian invasion began in early 2022, Yuri was deeply concerned for his family back home. Yuri shared the news that he would be returning to Ukraine to ensure the safety of his family. Within a matter of hours, Mark was accompanied by another highly trained military veteran and they were on an airplane headed to Ukraine. The mission was not only to accompany his good friend home safely, but also to provide humanitarian efforts where they could. After multiple trips to Ukraine using teams of different special operations veterans the team then mobilized to assist in relief efforts of Hurricane Ian in 2022. Mark understands first-hand the everyday challenges that U.S Veterans in our country face. Through his experience, Mark decided to combine his passion of helping people and his love for his fellow U.S Military Veterans by creating a non-profit that would serve a dual purpose.

Jan 8, 2023 • 1h 18min
#79 - Adaptogenic Herbs for Optimal Health: Ginseng, Ashwagandha and Rhodiola
Welcome back to the Iron Sights Podcast! In this episode, I sat down with the typical team at Red Dot Fitness in addition to one of our fitness coaches, Stephen Brenna. In this episode we discuss Adaptogenic herbs and their benefits. The focus of this episode is on: Ashwagandha, Rhodiola and Ginseng.Ashwagandha is a popular adaptogenic herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is believed to help the body adapt to stress, improve cognitive function, and boost immunity. Some studies have also shown that ashwagandha may have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects.Rhodiola is an adaptogenic herb that is native to the cold, mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. It has traditionally been used to increase physical and mental endurance, reduce fatigue, and improve mood. Some research suggests that rhodiola may also have anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects.Ginseng is another well-known adaptogenic herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is believed to help the body adapt to stress, improve cognitive function, and boost immunity. Some studies have also shown that ginseng may have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects, and may be useful in the management of diabetes. There are several different types of ginseng, including Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), which have slightly different properties.Red Dot Fitness Training Programs: https://www.rdftrainonline.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/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ironsightspodcast

Jan 6, 2023 • 2h 31min
#49 After Dark - The Story of Jeff Nichols: Inside The Mind of A Navy SEAL
Welcome back to the Iron Sights Podcast! In this episode, I sat down with Jeff Nichols, former Navy SEAL and founder of Performance First. Nichols has been a strength coach for over 20 years working with athletes of all ages in amateur and professional athletics. Jeff is certified through the NSCA as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Facilitator both with distinction. Jeff began his career as a graduate assistant at Troy University under Richard Schaughnessy CSCS*D and later as an assistant managing 14 Varsity sports. After earning a double major in Kinesiology and Chemistry in 2002, Jeff joined the navy and spent eleven years as a Navy SEAL. Aside from serving as a SEAL while on active duty, he also worked at a Navel Special Warfare command as the active duty Department Head within the Human Performance Department. Jeff oversaw product development, product assessment, program assessment, and operator delegate within Special Operations Command (SOCOM) for Human Performance.After honorable discharge from Naval service Jeff became the Co-Founder and Co-Owner of Virginia High Performance LLC in Virginia Beach. Jeff oversaw the programming and training within VHP that focused on youth athletic teams, wounded veterans, and numerous national and international tactical organizations.Jeff now owns Performance First, a private business, specializing in optimizing human performance for the special forces branches of the military, fire, police, and federal agencies.Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:27 Jeff's Story06:21 War Background13:04 Dropout Rates17:40 Adapting In This World21:49 Surviving Post-War27:45 Performance First31:53 Passion To Serve33:50 Working with Operators38:39 Winning In Business48:03 Online Programs/Offers49:31 S&C Programs57:26 Business Is Business59:28 Programming1:05:04 Mistakes Athletes Make1:14:22 Phasing Programs1:23:51 Mentorship1:31:15 The Stigma1:34:10 The Next War1:44:50 Knowing When To Get Out1:50:28 Healing Treatments1:59:55 Seeking Safety2:05:17 Jeff's Seminar2:09:51 Health From The Top Down2:16:55 Performance Identity2:24:07 Social Media & ContactRed Dot Fitness Training Programs: https://www.rdftrainonline.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/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ironsightspodcastFollow Jeff Nichols:Website: https://www.performancefirstus.com/Instagram: @jeffcscs

Jan 2, 2023 • 1h 2min
#78 - Creating the Perfect Home Gym: Expert Tips and Tricks
Welcome back to Iron Sights! In this episode, we discuss how to create the perfect home gym. Working out at home has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. There are numerous benefits to establishing a home gym and making exercise a regular part of your routine and schedule.First and foremost, working out at home can save you time and money. No need to drive to a gym or pay for a membership. You can also tailor your home workout to fit your specific needs. In addition to the convenience factor, working out at home also allows you to create a personalized and comfortable environment. This can make your workouts more enjoyable and help you stay motivated.Another benefit of working out at home is the increased privacy and control over your environment. You don't have to worry about being judged by others or feeling self-conscious about your fitness level. This can be especially beneficial for those who may be intimidated by the gym or who have specific health or physical limitations.If you're looking to follow a specific workout routine after building your home gym check out rdftrainonline.com to view the programs we offer here at Red Dot Fitness.Timestamps:00:00 Building A Home Gym07:19 Equipment For Small Spaces13:52 The Power Rack18:40 Adjustable Dumbbells21:24 Adjustable Bench 23:53 Bars And Plates32:05 Considerations When Buying Bars And Plates37:10 Dumbbells Brands38:21 Superbands40:21 Advanced Equipment For Home Gyms 43:11 Vertical Cable Machine45:28 Deadlift Platforms47:23 Suspension Trainers 48:42 Tubing/Cables50:15 What You Should Never Buy57:38 Closing Advice Red Dot Fitness Training Programs: https://www.rdftrainonline.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/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ironsightspodcast

Dec 30, 2022 • 1h 41min
#48 After Dark - From Protect and Serve to Unemployed: The Vaccine Mandate That Stole Joel Evan's Badge
This episode is with special guest Joel Evan, a former Law Enforcement officer from the Bay Area. Evan recently moved into the world of health, fitness and wellness coaching. How did that happen you might ask? In this episode, you will hear from Joel on how he was fired from S.F.P.D. for not taking the jab which led him into his passion for continued education, biohacking and personal development. Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:37 Hacks vs. Biohacking06:11 Joel's Podcast08:31 Being A Coach13:18 Joel's Career In Law Enforcement20:45 Community Relationships25:06 Making A Difference33:13 Joel's Transition To S.F.P.D.41:25 A Change of Mindset In His Career47:48 Officer Involved Shooting 59:34 Stress Factors01:08 Transfering From Oakland To San Francisco 01:14:46 The Pandemic And The Vaccine 01:27:20 Joel Gets Fired01:34:06 Joel's Final MessageRed Dot Fitness Training Programs: https://www.rdftrainonline.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/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ironsightspodcast

Dec 26, 2022 • 45min
#77 - Conditioning For Winter Sports
Welcome back to the Iron Sights podcast! It's just a day after Christmas and we are ready to discuss Conditioning For Winter Sports. Chances are, you've tried winter sports at least once in your life... In fact, millions of people and their families hit the slopes every year. We start off with some key tips about preparing for the winter season and complete the episode with mobility and strengthening tips to build you up for the ultimate snow day. Whether you prefer a pair of skis or a snowboard, this conversation covers best practices for performance, injury prevention and interesting stats about winter sports! Red Dot Fitness Training Programs: https://www.rdftrainonline.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/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ironsightspodcastTimestamps:00:00 Getting Ready For Snow Season03:40 How To Prepare Yourself For Winter Sports06:47 Skiing10:22 Season Tickets12:57 Endurance & Mobility 14:09 Stability & Balance 21:22 How To Train25:28 Advanced Workouts34:13 Starting As A Beginner 37:57 Knee Strength Training