Bullets n Bourbon Podcast

Karen Hunter

Karen and I first started talking back in 2021 when I was still on the Marine Corps Shooting Team. She approached me about writing an article about the gear that I use and what we do on the shooting team. Needless to say, this was my first time ever being interviewed for a magazine article, and for those in the military, we know how the press are portrayed. Karen made the whole process extremely comfortable, and when the product was finished, I was in shock. She’s an intelligent and eloquent writer who has a passion for coaching and mentoring shooters and covering all things 2A space.

Nate and Blayr Drumm

In this episode, Matt talks to both Nate and Blayr Drumm on their training as a couple in leading up to an event and how they support each other as a couple and as competitors for the Tactical Games, recent victories, recovering from injuries, and the biggest life-changing surprise.

Odysseus and the Oar - Land of the Lotus Eaters

In the episode, we cover Chapter 3, Land of the Lotus Eaters. We cover substance abuse, seeking help, how early development can affect the growth and mental health of a person, and PTSD and how other cultures view it and helped their warriors become whole again,

Army Veteran, Leader and Author, Clay Novak

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Clay Novak. Clay is a retired Army Officer who served for over 20 years and held command billets at every rank. We discussed leadership, deployments, hockey, shooting, his latest book "Keep Moving, Keep Shooting" and G-Code Tactical. It was a fun discussion between a couple retired guys who have a passion for serving those who serve.

What It's Like To Go To War With Karl Marlantes

In this episode Matt and Adam Magers speak to Karl Marlantes about his experience in Vietnam. They cover the platoon sergeant and platoon command balance, burden of command, earning the Navy Cross and dealing with PTSD and healing after the war.

MCMC Far East

In this latest episode, Matt talks to Col. Scott Cuomo, Capt. Calvin Tang and CWO Jared Hohmeier about the latest Marine Corps Marksmanship Competition in Okinawa Japan. They cover the importance of the competitions in that region, Force Design 2030, format of the competition and the importance of having a Marine Corps Shooting Team.

The Gauntlet Match with Chris Hutchison

In this episode, Matt talks with Chris Hutchison about the newest match at Zoo City Armory known as "The Gauntlet Match". It's a physically demanding match which draws its inspiration from the days of the "Battle Rattle" and Rumble which were put on by John Sherbert. This was a fun episode as much as it being a fun match and we hope you enjoy it.

Odysseus and the Oar - The Warrior Archetype

In this episode of Bullets n Bourbon, host Matt Gundlach, joined by Brittany Long, welcomes back Adam Magers, author of Odysseus and the Oar, for a monthly discussion on key themes from the book and their connection to mental health in the military and law enforcement community. Adam introduces the concepts of Jungian psychology, particularly the analysis of dreams, and how they reflect unresolved conflicts veterans may face. He explores the archetypal image of the warrior, cautioning against its constant presence and its impact on transitioning to civilian or adjacent military roles. Adam also addresses ego inflation among veterans, emphasizing methods to “de-escalate” and reconnect with the present. Reflecting on historical attitudes toward veterans, Adam examines the shift in societal perceptions, such as the rise of “dysfunctional veteran” culture, and questions whether trends like VetTV, silkies hikes, and 22 push-up challenges honor veterans or exacerbate underlying issues. Through these discussions, Adam highlights the importance of meaningful conversations and trusted connections in supporting mental health.

Fall Brawl and BFTS with Jason Byerly

In this episode of Bullets n Bourbon, host Matt Gundlach talks with Jason Byerly, the mastermind behind popular shooting matches like Fall Brawl and Battle for the South. Jason reflects on the recently completed Fall Brawl at Coleman’s Creek, sharing how he overcame challenges posed by the long-range shooting setup to create a balanced match for the 3-gun community. Looking ahead, Jason discusses his decision to transition Battle for the South to a 2-gun format, highlighting the new opportunities it brings for stage design, especially at the world-class Gryphon Group facility. He also touches on upcoming events, such as the Gauntlet Match, and shares his shoot-off idea. Jason gives shoutouts to those who supported Fall Brawl and leaves listeners with insights into what’s next for his exciting matches.

Retired Deputy U.S. Marshal Karen Long

Karen Long shares her journey as a law enforcement officer, starting with her first role in corrections. As she advanced, Karen became a Deputy U.S. Marshal. She recalls the rigorous demands of the Marshal Service, the importance of resilience, and offers advice to those aspiring to join law enforcement. Karen also recounts her role in the 9/11 Pentagon investigation, sharing the emotional weight of the experience. Balancing her career with motherhood, she reflects on the complexities of family life and law enforcement. Now retired, she reflects back on how mental health wasn't as important and widely accepted as it is today. She encourages the next generation to embrace the challenges and rewards of a career in law enforcement.