Iron Sights

Latest Episodes:

#159 After Dark - Law Enforcement Training: Accountability, Quality & The Broken System w/ Rick Jacobs Mar 28, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I sit down with Rick Jacobs, an instructional design expert with years of experience in law enforcement, the corporate world, and entrepreneurship.

Rick has a deep understanding of how training programs are designed, delivered, and—more importantly—where they fall short. We dive into the problems with law enforcement training, from outdated POST standards to institutional roadblocks that prevent real progress.

Many officers and instructors agree that the system is broken, and today, Rick and I break down exactly why that is and what can be done about it.

Beyond law enforcement, this conversation applies to multiple industries—corporate training, leadership development, and private instruction.

We explore validity, quality, and accountability in training programs, questioning what makes instruction truly effective and how organizations should measure success.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

06:53 Rick Jacobs’s Background & Career

17:50 Law Enforcement Challenges

21:51 Training Issues & Improvements

54:23 Accountability & Standards

57:22 Quality Materials & Processes

01:01:06 Instructor Challenges & Feedback

01:08:51 Consistency & Rubrics

01:24:19 Liability & Realistic Training

01:34:17 Comprehensive Training Programs

01:38:57 Projects & Consultations

01:44:48 Challenges & Future Plans

02:08:05 Contact Rick

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#187 - Full-Body vs. Split Training: The Best Approach For Strength & Longevity Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

We’re back with another episode of the Iron Sights Podcast! In this discussion, we break down why full-body training is superior for most people and athletes compared to body part split training.

This isn’t about saying body part splits are bad—it’s about understanding the bigger picture when it comes to training effectively and sustainably. Whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior, or just looking to optimize your time in the gym, this conversation will give you insight into how to structure your workouts for maximum results.

Sit back and enjoy this episode of the Iron Sights Podcast!

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Red Dot Fitness Training Programs:
rdfprograms.com
Online Membership (Full Access To All Programs & Virtual Coaching):
https://www.reddotfitness.net/online-membership
Virtual Coaching:
https://www.reddotfitness.net/virtual-coaching
Self-Guided Programs:
https://www.reddotfitness.net/Self-Guided-Programs1

Timestamps:

03:11 Total Body Training vs. Splits

05:09 Benefits Of Total Body Training

11:19 Flexibility & Adaptation In Training

19:09 Balancing Strength & Endurance

30:28 Full Body Routines & Recovery

34:41 Structuring An Effective Workout

40:09 Individualized Training Approaches

44:41 Consistency For Long-Term Success

53:48 RDF Programs Overview

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#158 After Dark - Inside Texas SWAT Training w/ TTPOA Director Brandon Hernandez Mar 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Iron Sights After Dark, I sit down with Brandon Hernandez, Region 7 Director and Head of Training for the Texas Tactical Police Officers Association (TTPOA).

Brandon is the guy responsible for organizing training for TTPOA members—primarily SWAT officers across Texas. While meeting with Brandon, I had the opportunity to go through Region 7’s Basic SWAT School, an intense program that provides a foundational look at SWAT operations. We break down my experience in the course, how SWAT training has evolved, and the critical role TTPOA plays in equipping officers with top-tier instruction.

We also talk about the TTPOA Annual Conference, happening this April in Round Rock, Texas. With 186 vendors, breakout sessions, and dedicated training days on the range, it’s one of the biggest law enforcement training events of the year.

Timestamps:

04:33 Introduction To TTPOA & SWAT Training

05:31 Teamwork & Mental Fortitude

06:50 Continuous Learning In Law Enforcement

09:53 Career Insights & Training Standards

39:41 PT & Honoring Fallen Officers

44:49 Thor Hammers & Memorial March

54:03 Classroom Sessions & Legal Briefings

01:05:03 Range Day & Shooting Drills

01:10:17 Vehicle Assaults & Team Bonding

01:15:53 CQB Training & Physical Challenges

01:21:47 Advanced SWAT Training

01:41:27 Community Policing & Public Perception

01:44:21 Final Thoughts & Gratitude

#186 - How To Stay On Track With Nutrition While Traveling Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

Back in the Iron Sights Podcast studio with the crew from Red Dot Fitness!

Today, we’re tackling a topic that so many people struggle with—sticking to your nutrition plan while traveling. In this episode, we break it down from multiple angles, covering mindset, preparation, and strategies to set yourself up for success before, during, and after your trip.

We provide a roadmap for eating out, making smart food choices, and ensuring you get enough protein while avoiding hidden pitfalls in restaurant meals. If you’ve ever struggled with staying on track while traveling, this one’s for you! Like, share, and subscribe to stay tuned for more actionable fitness insights.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

02:46 Nutrition Challenges On The Road

05:17 Setting Expectations For Trips

10:02 Planning Post-Vacation Routine

14:37 Business Travel & Nutrition Strategies

20:31 Healthier Restaurant Choices

26:02 Maximizing Protein Intake

32:07 Smart Snacks & Fiber Sources

38:19 Hydration & Staying Prepared

42:11 Avoiding Pitfalls & Staying On Track

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#157 After Dark - Shot Show 2025: Chris Long @ Walther Arms Mar 14, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back to the Iron Sights After DarkPodcast!

Fresh off SHOT Show 2025, I had the chance to talk to Chris Long, the Content Manager at Walther Arms.

During the show, Walther was unveiling their new PDP F-Series Pistol, and I got my hands on it to see what it’s all about. I also sat down with Chris for an inside look at his role, Walther’s approach to customer feedback, and what sets them apart in an industry where not every brand gets it right.

This episode takes a different angle as we dive into the marketing side of the firearms world.

With the recent industry buzz surrounding a certain pistol, Chris and I discuss how Walther handles customer feedback and their commitment to improving their products based on real user input.

We also get into Chris’s background as a competitive shooter, content creator, and firearms enthusiast, along with the opportunities that have come his way

Enjoy the show!

Timestamps:

04:35 Chris Long’s Background

08:18 Cultural Competence in Marketing

13:29 Walther PDP F-Series & Product Evolution

18:44 Consumer Feedback & Development

25:44 Balancing Civilian & Military Markets

31:10 Innovation & Market Strategy

36:57 Marketing & Storytelling at Walther

44:21 Advice for Content Creators

#156 After Dark - Shot Show 2025: Practical & Competition Shooting with Frank Proctor Mar 07, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back to the Iron Sights After DarkPodcast!

This episode is part of our SHOT Show 2025 series, and I had the chance to sit down with Frank Proctor—one of the best in the practical and competition shooting world.

With a background in Special Forces, Frank spent years honing his skills both in the military and on the range. Over time, he climbed the ranks in competition shooting to become a Grand Master, and in this episode, he breaks down exactly how he did it.

Frank’s journey is as interesting as his approach to training, and I let him roll with some great insights. We also talk about what he’s up to now, including his training facility in Alabama and his work helping others improve their skills behind the gun.

Whether you’re into tactical shooting or competition or just love hearing from top-level shooters, this episode is packed with knowledge and stories you won’t want to miss.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

05:31 Frank’s Early Career & National Guard

11:21 Special Forces Training & Deployments

27:43 Transition to Competitive Shooting

41:33 Army Marksmanship & Ammo Adventures

43:10 Dry Fire Training & Breakthroughs

46:20 From Training to Competitions

50:09 Evolution of Shooting Skills

54:24 Starting a Professional Shooting School

55:14 Social Media & Networking in Shooting

59:29 Innovations in Shooting Equipment

01:17:17 Future Plans & Exciting Projects

01:20:20 Closing Thoughts & Farewells

#185 - Muscle Building Tips Every Hardgainer Should Know Mar 03, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back to the Iron Sights Podcast! In this episode, the crew from Red Dot Fitness breaks down the best strategies for gaining muscle as a hard gainer.

We’ll cover what it means to be a hardgainer, how to determine if you fall into this category, and the specific challenges that come with it.

Whether you struggle to build muscle or just want to optimize your growth, we’re exploring nutrition, training, and key solutions to help you see real results.

Enjoy the show!

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

01:47 Hardgainers & Somatotypes

06:08 Ectomorphs vs. Mendomorphs vs. Endomorphs

09:59 Ectomorph Challenges & Strategies

11:14 Personal Experiences & Tips

17:28 Optimizing Protein & Gut Health

25:26 Probiotics, Enzymes & Dairy Sensitivity

30:47 Carbs for Muscle Gain

35:47 Best Workouts for Ectomorphs

41:44 RDF Strong Program & Supplements

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#155 After Dark - Shot Show 2025: Kingsley Pinderhughes III w/ KingPix Media Feb 28, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the one and only Kingsley Pinderhughes III, better known as Kingpix Media on Instagram.

If you’ve spent any time in the tactical community online, you’ve probably seen his hilarious and satirical content. He’s the mastermind behind the “Punch Out & Go to Work” persona, and his sharp wit has left no one off the table.

In this conversation, we dive into his background, his journey in law enforcement and the military, and what drives his creative process. This was a fun and insightful conversation that’ll make you appreciate the work that goes into crafting an online persona. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of the Iron Sights Podcast!

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

07:07 Rise of KingPix Media & Photography

12:13 Videography & TikTok Breakthrough

23:57 Balancing Family, Creativity & Comedy Roots

41:10 Law Enforcement Career & Officer Survival

45:16 Joining the SWAT Team & Work-Life Balance

47:16 Social Media & Leadership in Law Enforcement

55:19 Humanizing the Badge & Prioritizing Officers

1:03:38 Creative Ventures & SHOT Show

1:25:07 Final Thoughts & Reflections

#184 - Five Biggest Mistakes Men Over 40 Make with Fat Loss Feb 23, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back to another episode of the Iron Sights Podcast!

Today, I’ve got the crew from Red Dot Fitness—Steven, Ryan, CeCe, and myself—breaking down the five biggest mistakes men over 40 make with fat loss.

If you’re a middle-aged guy looking to ditch the baggy clothes and feel confident in a t-shirt again, this episode is for you...

We’re tackling whether you’re just ticking boxes and expecting results that never come and, more importantly, how to fix it. From structured muscle-building programs to key mindset shifts, we’re giving you the roadmap to sustainable fat loss and strength gains.

Enjoy the show!

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

01:54 Fat Loss for Men Over 40

03:57 Common Misconceptions

06:57 Protein & Macronutrient Balance

09:18 Pitfalls of Popular Diets

17:43 Effective Weightlifting Strategies

26:51 Quality Sleep & Recovery

40:57 Supplements & Hormones

44:13 Fundamentals for Men Over 40

Connect With Us:
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#154 After Dark - Shot Show 2025: Richie Arnold w/ RA Tactics Feb 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Iron Sights After Dark, I sit down with Richie Arnold, a highly experienced law enforcement officer and SWAT leader, to break down two major incidents that rocked the nation on New Year’s 2024-25.

We discuss the tragic events in New Orleans, where a truck attack claimed multiple lives, and the shocking explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Richie shares his insights on how major metropolitan agencies prepare for and respond to crises like these, drawing from his firsthand experience, including his response to the 2017 Mandalay Bay shooting.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

04:52 Richie’s Background

06:54 Joining SWAT

15:00 Recruitment Challenges

26:24 Training & Public Expectations

41:24 Life in SWAT

49:29 Raw Tactics Intro

59:34 Training & Perception

01:11:38 Motivation in Law Enforcement

01:22:56 Training & Budget Issues

01:32:23 Situational Awareness