Bullets n Bourbon Podcast

Brandon Alvarez from Broken Arrow Training

In this episode of "Bullets n Bourbon," Brandon Alvarez, a former Ranger Regiment member with a military background in Savannah and Fort Bragg, shares his journey from military service to becoming a Grand Master (GM) in multiple shooting disciplines, including Carry Optics and Open. Alvarez discusses his reasons for joining and eventually leaving the service, reflecting on what he might have done differently. He delves into the natural abilities that contributed to his rapid progression in practical shooting, as well as the challenges he faced and how he balances dry fire with live fire training. Alvarez also provides insights into how he internally critiques his performance and approaches different levels of competition. Additionally, he talks about his training company, Broken Arrow Training, its unique offerings, and the balance he maintains between coaching others and continuing his own development as a competitor and instructor.

John Royer from Outdoor Dynamics

In this episode of "Bullets n Bourbon," John Royer, a former NASCAR pit crewman turned competitive shooter and ammo manufacturer, shares insights from his unique career transition. He discusses the quirks from his pit crew days that have carried over into his daily life, and the similarities between visualizing a perfect pit stop and executing a flawless shooting stage. Royer reflects on the aspects of the fast-paced pit crew lifestyle he misses and the unique appeal of shooting in the Limited division. He also talks about managing the rush of orders during the busy match season, maintaining relationships with reloading component distributors, and the qualities he looks for when sponsoring shooters for his pro team. Additionally, Royer discusses the challenges of automation in reloading, his approach to keeping presses clean, and his focus on delivering top-quality products at Outdoor Dynamics, while also sharing his thoughts on whether In-N-Out is the best fast food burger.

Col Howard Hall Career Retrospective

In this episode, we interview Col Howard Hall, a distinguished advisor, innovator, and friend who recently retired after 30 years of service. Col Hall's leadership and guidance have been instrumental in driving change and mission accomplishment across the Marine Corps. He shares advice for newly promoted NCOs, SNCOs, and fresh lieutenants, highlighting the importance of flexibility and support. Col Hall discusses the characteristics of successful officer/SNCO relationships and reflects on pivotal duty stations and deployments that shaped his career. He also opens up about overcoming career challenges, the significance of maintaining pride and goals during the transition to civilian life, and the balance between diplomatic and aggressive leadership approaches. Additionally, Col Hall emphasizes the role of physical and intellectual hobbies in personal development and offers his vision for the future of Marine Corps Marksmanship, including necessary organizational and cultural changes.

Col Greg Jones Career Retrospective

 
In an insightful interview with Col Greg Jones, recently retired Commanding Officer of Weapons Training Battalion, Marine Corps, key discussions included advice for various career stages, from newly promoted NCOs to fresh lieutenants, and characteristics of successful officer/SNCO collaborations. Col Jones reflected on pivotal duty stations and relationships that shaped his career, overcoming significant challenges, and the importance of maintaining pride and goals during the transition to civilian life. He shared examples where diplomatic and aggressive leadership approaches yielded the best outcomes, emphasized the role of hobbies in personal development, and discussed the future of Marine Corps Marksmanship, highlighting necessary organizational and cultural changes for continued progress.

Red Stitch Targets - Intergalactic Falling Steel Match

In this episode of Bullets n Bourbon, hosts Matt Gundlach and Frank Gao are joined by Darin Morrel, owner of Red Stitch Targets and Match Director for the upcoming Intergalactic Falling Steel Championship at Shadow Hawk Defense. Darin shares his background, including his service in the Marine Corps, and discusses his journey into the steel target business, highlighting his commitment to creating challenging targets. He reminisces about the old North Mountain USPSA matches and compares them to contemporary matches. Darin explains the inspiration behind the name "Intergalactic Falling Steel Match" and his objectives for the stage designs. He reflects on the lessons learned from planning the match and emphasizes the importance of his relationship with Shadow Hawk Defense's owners, Lynn and Randy, in successfully organizing the event.
 

Generation GWOT

n this episode of Generation GWOT, Michael Phillips discusses his roles as a mentor with FourBlock and a member of American Corporate Partners, programs that aid service members transitioning out of the military by providing career guidance and networking opportunities. Phillips manages his time between these organizations and his own pursuits, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the veteran community. Phillips highlights how military experience can translate to civilian success through skills like leadership and resilience. He shares his passion for competitive shooting sports, specifically 3-gun competitions, and underscores the significance of such events in fostering camaraderie and competition among both active-duty and veteran service members. The Generation GWOT 3-Gun match, which Phillips describes as a unique and challenging competition, aims to engage participants with new experiences and growth opportunities. Phillips envisions the competition expanding in the future while maintaining its core mission of supporting the veteran community.

Harrison Vansky

Harrison Vansky, a former Army member, discovered competitive shooting during his service and sees valuable lessons the military can learn from the sport, such as dynamic movement and quick decision-making. As a left-handed PCC shooter, he advocates for more balanced USPSA stage designs to ensure fairness. Achieving Grand Master status shifted his focus to overall match performance. Vansky, who also golfed competitively in high school, finds parallels in mental focus and precision between golf and shooting. Despite the accessibility of golf, he notes USPSA’s need for better infrastructure, professional management, and media exposure to elevate the sport. This season, he aims to compete in major matches to further improve his skills and rankings.

Rafael Fuentes from the Army Reserve Shooting Team

Rafael Fuentes, a seasoned shooter and reservist, reflects on his journey from active duty to the reserves, highlighting the benefits of transitioning into the reserves after active service. He shares insights gained from his experience in competitive shooting, including his recent successes and learning moments. Rafael discusses his role in the shooting community, both as a competitor and as an aspiring match director, emphasizing the importance of preparation and leadership. He also touches on the challenges and rewards of instructing others in firearms skills, stressing the significance of credibility and effective teaching. Throughout his narrative, Rafael's dedication to excellence and growth in the shooting world shines, alongside his distinctive personal style, including his memorable Luigi mustache.

Sergeant Major Chris Singley on Hunting and Leadership

In the latest episode of the Bullets n Bourbon Podcast, Chris Singley, the current SgtMaj of the Warfighting Lab, shares insights from his life and career. Originally from a small town, Chris discusses his journey into hunting, a passion he either grew up with. He details the extensive preparations required for significant hunts, like his upcoming trip to Colorado, emphasizing the meticulous planning and equipment checks involved. Chris talks about his comfortable engagement distances with a rifle, amongst other things.
Chris's love for turkey hunting shines through as he recounts his early season success and the challenges of staying motivated when the hunt doesn't go as planned. He shares a memorable hunting experience, highlighting what made it particularly special. As the first SgtMaj at the Warfighting Lab since 2009, Chris elaborates on the unique environment and his role in the grand scheme of things. He also discusses the Marine Corps' recent focus on wargames and the state-of-the-art Neller Center, which aims to enhance training for all ranks.
Reflecting on his 26-year Marine Corps career, Chris talks about his journey and any unexpected turns along the way. Despite the current challenges of limited direct interaction with young Marines, he outlines his strategy for influencing positive change throughout the ranks. Finally, Chris leaves listeners with some parting thoughts, encapsulating his experiences and the wisdom gained over the years.

Rob Hewins

Rob Hewins, known for his infectious positivity, shared insights into his journey in the shooting sports and martial arts. Despite his parents’ attempts to steer him towards football and basketball, Rob found a deep connection with the independence and personal challenge offered by individual sports. He emphasized the importance of having a competitive outlet in his life, which not only fuels his passion but also supports his professional growth. Balancing competitive aspirations with social engagement in the sport, Rob highlights how being outgoing and well-known in the region enriches his experiences. Famous for his phrases and sign-off word "grateful," Rob explains that gratitude keeps him grounded and positive. As he prepares to graduate with an MBA after years of distance education, he reflects on the lessons learned in balancing personal, professional, and academic responsibilities, offering advice to those considering further education. Rob remains focused on his goals and looks forward to a busy summer match schedule, feeling optimistic about the upcoming Carry Optics Nationals.