Iron Sights

We’re back with another After Dark episode of the Iron Sights Podcast, and this time I’m joined by Kim Raimondi — known by some of you as PeliKim on Instagram.In this conversation, we get into all of it. Kim shares what it’s like working with departments and agencies all over the country, what she’s seeing from her side of the industry, and how Pelican plays a role in supporting first responders. But, the deeper part of this talk is around volunteer firefighting — the training, the culture, and the challenges that come with stepping up to serve when the pager goes off.Kim’s the kind of person who’s got one foot in the corporate world and the other in the dirt with the people doing the hard jobs. That perspective makes this episode a fun, eye-opening conversation about service, support, and giving back.Timestamps:00:00 Intro03:58 Introduction & Kim’s Background04:10 From Jersey To Sales Leadership08:34 Athletic Drive & Field Hockey Career17:37 Transition Into The Fire Service23:46 Volunteer Firefighting & Community Culture46:39 The Impact Of Social Media In Firefighting51:00 Communication Tools In Emergency Services52:30 Real-Life Firefighting Meets Product Design53:46 Why Intrinsically Safe Equipment Matters55:35 How Pelican Influenced Her Career & Life01:02:33 Pelican’s History & Industry Impact01:11:44 Connecting With First Responders & Innovating-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/

Welcome back to another episode of the Iron Sights Podcast!In this one, I’m joined by Ryan and CeCe in the studio for a deep dive into a hot topic that’s been coming up more and more in elite performance circles—microdosing your workouts. We break down what microdosing your training actually means, where the concept came from, and how to structure it.We talk about who it’s best for, who it might not be for, and how this approach can help busy individuals juggle strength, hypertrophy, speed, power, and conditioning—all without burning out.If you’re someone trying to do it all in a limited time or just looking for smarter programming strategies, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Let’s cut through the confusion and explore how to train more effectively with less.-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 Intro03:34 What Is Microdosing Workouts?09:54 History & Research Behind Microdosing11:14 Real-World Benefits & Use Cases20:39 Microdosing Vs. Traditional Training26:02 Intentional Adaptation & Recovery31:00 How To Apply Microdosing Effectively33:14 Tracking Progress & Feedback41:12 Exercise Selection & Volume Management49:17 Expert Insights & What’s Next-Connect 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!Today, I’m sitting down with someone who’s not only a good friend, but one of the sharpest dudes I’ve come across in the training space — Wild Bill Braski.If you’re on Instagram, you might already know the name. Bill is a military veteran and a full-time law enforcement officer who works directly in the training unit at his agency on the East Coast. He’s also a major voice in the combatives world and the founder of the Wild Bill Braski Knife & Tool Company — a brand built for real-world operators, not keyboard commandos.In this episode, we dig into how Bill approaches training inside his agency and how that’s influenced neighboring departments. His work is making a noticeable impact.We talk process, leadership, and what it takes to get real buy-in when pushing for progress in a culture that can be notoriously resistant to change. There’s a lot of wisdom here for trainers, cops, and anyone leading people through hard problems.We also get into his gear company and the mission behind the knives and tools he’s building — why he started it, what makes his gear different, and how he’s designing with the end user in mind. I own a couple of his tools myself, and I can say firsthand — they’re the real deal.This episode is packed with insight, a few laughs, and a whole lot of straight talk. Whether you’re in law enforcement, the military, or just someone who respects the people doing the hard jobs the right way — this one’s worth your time.Enjoy the show!-Timestamps:00:00 Intro06:17 Wild Bill’s Military & Law Enforcement Journey16:21 Evolution Of Combatives & Training Philosophy22:25 Building Effective Training Programs31:29 Why Realistic Training Matters48:36 Integrating Firearms With Combatives50:03 The Pyramid Of Hard Skills1:03:43 Measuring Success In Law Enforcement Training1:08:42 Navigating Public Perception1:19:53 Launching A Knife & Tool Company1:26:46 Craftsmanship & Community Connection1:40:58 The Value Of Combatives Summits-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/

We’re back with another Iron Sights After Dark episode, and I’m joined once again by my friend Chris Kuras. Chris is a seasoned law enforcement officer with over a decade of SWAT experience—and he’s the guy behind Good Dude Concepts and the Good Dude Breacher Bar, a compact, mission-driven tool built for first responders, military, and civilians alike.In this episode, we get into the why behind the tool, how it was developed, and what it’s designed to do: breach doors, defeat laminated glass, and ultimately save lives. Chris walks us through the thought process, real-world application, and what it takes to bring a product like this from concept to the hands of people who need it most.But as usual, our conversation goes beyond gear. We talk mindset, training, the SWAT world, and what it means to serve with purpose in today’s environment.If you’re into tactical tools, product development, or just appreciate guys doing good work for the right reasons, this one’s for you.-Timestamps:00:00 Intro04:40 Texas Tactical Police Officers Association Conference04:56 Good Dude Concepts: Rebrand & Product Launch06:21 Chris Curtis: Background & Career06:58 Breacher Bar Origins09:34 Breacher Bar: Design & Utility13:15 Breacher Bar: Real-World Applications16:45 Launch & Availability43:38 Weapon Mounted Lights: Clearing The Confusion45:29 Balancing Cost & Quality For First Responders51:06 Custom Gear & Limited Runs01:01:23 International Demand & Distribution Challenges01:13:20 Training & Instruction-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/

Welcome back to another episode of the Iron Sights Podcast!Today, we’re diving into the growing trend of using weight vests for fitness and weight loss, especially among women. With claims about increased calorie burn and improved bone density, we break down what’s real, what’s hype, and what you need to know before strapping one on.We also get into smart ways to integrate weight vests into your training routine, including key considerations, risks, and benefits to keep in mind—whether you’re new to training or looking to take your workouts to the next level.But we don’t stop there... We expand the conversation into the tactical athlete space, covering how weight vests are used in CrossFit, Tactical Games, law enforcement, military, and first responder training.From performance to practicality, we highlight how different communities are using vests—and how it translates to the average gym-goer.If you’re thinking about training with a weight vest, this episode is packed with useful insights, pros and cons, and real-world application tips to help you get the most out of your gear while staying safe and effective.-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-Timestamps:02:24 Intro02:52 Tactical And Practical Applications05:31 Bone Density & Weight Loss Benefits06:17 Pros And Cons15:07 Caloric Burn: What To Know19:46 Athletic Performance With Vests26:38 Posture & Mechanics Impact28:30 Weight Vests For Women30:16 Picking The Right Vest32:34 Best Training Practices41:51 Breathing & Mobility Challenges44:38 Practical Advice & Tips-Connect 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 here on the Iron Sights Podcast, and this one’s powerful.I sat down with Tamara DuMont—a competitive shooter, firearms instructor, and the kind of voice this community needs more of.Tamara’s story is real, raw, and deeply personal. Her introduction to firearms came after a horrific tragedy: the murder of her mother by her stepfather, using a firearm.And yet, Tamara’s journey didn’t end in fear—it turned into purpose.Now, she leads a local chapter of A Girl & A Gun, the largest and most impactful women’s firearms organization in the country. She spends her days behind the gun counter, training others on the range, and building community around responsible firearms ownership—especially for women.We talk about overcoming trauma, advocating for the Second Amendment, and how to have honest conversations with people who are afraid, uninformed, or simply curious.Tamara brings healthy confidence, clarity, and grace to every conversation she’s in—and I know you’ll take something powerful from this one.-Timestamps:04:17 Intro05:55 Childhood & Family Dynamics09:34 Journey Into Firearms21:34 CCW Experience & Threat Encounter27:23 Joining ‘A Girl & A Gun’31:44 Empowering Women In Gun Stores39:26 Women & Self-Defense43:33 Women In Gun Culture50:32 Leadership & Community Building55:21 Competitions & Qualifications01:13:20 Barriers For Women01:44:42 Firearms Training & Events02:02:11 Women & The Second Amendment-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/

Back in the studio today with another episode of the Iron Sights Podcast. This time, I’m joined by Steven and CeCe—Ryan’s out, but we’re diving into a topic that comes up constantly in our world: macro prescriptions.With warmer months here and people dialing in their nutrition and training, it made sense to revisit the macros conversation. How much protein should you really be eating? What about carbs and fats? What’s too much, what’s not enough, and how do you even come up with those numbers in the first place?We’re breaking down common questions we get as coaches and giving you a framework to think through your own nutrition, especially if you’re trying to lean out, bulk up, or just stay consistent. Whether you’re new to macros or just need a refresher, we’ve got practical tips and a few free resources that’ll help you make sense of it all.-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-Timestamps:00:00 Intro03:27 Macros & Individual Needs07:32 Calculating Your TDEE14:47 Why Protein Matters23:17 Carbs Vs. Fats29:40 Keto & Carnivore Insights33:00 Managing Fat & Protein Intake37:09 Diet Adjustments For Overweight Clients46:07 Realistic Goals & Trusting The Process50:48 Practical Diet Tips & Resources-Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Anna Heil is dedicated to bettering and preserving the quality of life for first responders and members of the American military veteran community. She the Executive Director with the American Warrior Foundation who provide resources to help individuals and agencies face the internal and external challenges both the people and institutions face.This conversation we had at the annual Texas Tactical Police Officers Conference doesn’t follow the typical discussions around the topic of “trauma”. Anna and the AWA Team lean in heavy to the morale injuries faced by those that serve our communities yet find themselves battling systemic institutional failures in leadership,    broken agency models, and the massive short-comings in cultural competency when it comes to providing services.Anna and The AWA have found a way to begin chipping away at the foundational components, bringing awareness to, and scaling their non-profit to make meaningful and lasting change. It’s a different approach and you’ll get that through this conversation.Sit back and enjoy this Iron Sights After Dark episode with Anna Heil.-Timestamps:00:00 Intro04:40 Anna Hile’s Background06:50 First Responder Challenges12:09 Moral Injury Explained21:33 R3 Program Overview24:09 Building Support Systems37:40 Expanding Across Texas41:41 Public-Private Partnerships44:41 Peer Support Networks51:05 Education & Awareness01:03:57 Confidential Support Access01:07:23 A Firefighter’s Story01:09:34 The New Normal01:15:11 Spousal Support Matters01:22:26 Launching Support Programs01:32:20 Advocacy & Future Plans-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/

We’re back from a weekend out at Pinnacles National Park—and this one’s all about knees. After spending hours hiking up and down rocky terrain, the conversation naturally turned to joint health, knee pain, and how to keep your body running strong.In this episode, we break down the real causes of knee pain—what it is, what it isn’t, and why so many people get it wrong. We talk about the role of glutes, hamstrings, and biomechanics in keeping your knees healthy and pain-free. From hiking trails to the gym floor, your knees take a beating if you’re not moving right.We also share our go-to movements and strategies for both prehab and rehab, including exercises like terminal knee extensions, Spanish squats, and Copenhagen side planks. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or just looking to stay ahead of it, there’s something in here for you.This isn’t theory—it’s what we actually do when our joints start talking back. Tune in. Take notes. And keep training smart.-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-Timestamps:00:00 Intro02:39 Hiking At Pinnacles National Park06:10 Knee Pain & Common Mistakes14:57 Causes Of Knee Pain23:50 Rehab & Strengthening25:48 Leg Extensions & TKEs29:51 Spanish Squats Explained32:57 Glute & Hip Strength39:03 Medial Stability & Adductors42:36 Hamstrings For Knee Health50:59 Exercise Integration For Pain Relief-Connect With Us:Website - https://ironsightspodcast.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ironsightspodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

Welcome back to another Iron Sights After Dark episode. In this conversation, I sit down with Joey Pena, COO of Charlie Mike Protection Services, a veteran-owned executive protection company based out of Las Vegas, Nevada. Joey is a military veteran, seasoned entrepreneur, and respected voice in the world of private security and executive protection (EP).In this episode, we break down the truths, challenges, and culture shifts happening in the executive protection industry. From the old-school bodyguard mindset to the emergence of modern tech-savvy protectors, this discussion is packed with insight that goes far beyond just the gear or tactics. We talk about client expectations, the evolution of threats, and the importance of mindset, education, and leadership in protection work.-Timestamps:0000:0 Intro04:13 Joey Pena’s Background13:47 Evolution & Levels Of Executive Protection18:57 Role & Value Of EP Agents34:22 Skills & Challenges In The Field42:53 Social Media’s Influence On EP49:21 Hospitality As A Core EP Skill59:18 Vetting & Onboarding At Charlie Mike01:09:03 Educating Clients & Agents01:17:41 Complacency & Professional Standards01:40:13 Firearms & Protection Philosophy01:48:32 Closing Thoughts-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/