Best Sofia Espina Podcasts (2025)

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123: Training for Life: Lanny Barnes on Olympic Biathlon, Firearms, and Life Beyond the Podium 1:23:43

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2M ago1:23:43

1:23:43

In Episode 123 of She Shield Podcast, Sofia sits down with Lanny Barnes—a three-time Olympian in biathlon, professional shooter, artist, and all-around force of nature. Lanny offers an unfiltered look at what the Olympic experience is really like, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from her years competing in one of the most demanding sports on eart…

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122: Child Safety, Home Defense, and Hotel Dangers: Are You Prepared? An Interview with Michael Arterburn of Killer Bee Tactical 1:37:49

3M ago1:37:49

1:37:49

In Episode 122 of the She Shield Podcast, Sofia sits down with Michael Arterburn—retired law enforcement officer and the force behind Killer Bee Tactical. With 23 years of service, including roles as a Domestic Violence Detective, Internet Crimes Against Children Detective, and Bomb Technician, Michael brings a wealth of experience to our discussio…

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121: Mastering Dry Fire & Defining Success with Grandmaster Shooter and Coach Joey Sauerland 1:07:58

4M ago1:07:58

1:07:58

In Episode 121 of She Shield, I sit down with competitive shooter and coach Joey Sauerland to talk about the power of dry fire and the tools that can take your training to the next level. Joey shares how using a shot timer, metronome, and structured drills can help shooters of all levels refine their skills and measure real progress. We also dive i…

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120: Push Your Limits: Competition Shooting and Firearms Mastery with Tre’Von Barber of Barber Training Solutions 1:06:14

4M ago1:06:14

1:06:14

In Episode 120 Sofia interviews Tre’Von Barber is the owner and head firearms instructor at Barber Training Solutions, LLC, based in Fort Mill, SC. As an NRA-licensed, SLED-approved instructor and a USPSA Master Class competitor, Tre’Von brings a wealth of experience in both firearms training and competitive shooting. At Barber Training Solutions, …

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119: From Survivor to Advocate: Marisa Laren’s Mission with War Party Ranch 1:33:41

5M ago1:33:41

1:33:41

In Episode 119, Sofia interviews Marisa Laren, a multi-talented entrepreneur, artist, athlete, and advocate with a passion for living life to the fullest. A professional tattoo artist since 2012, she gained national recognition as a contestant on Ink Master Season 6 in 2015. In 2020, she launched her own private studio, Common Place, where she cont…

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118: Real Talk with Lucas Botkin: The Story Behind T.REX ARMS 1:32:34

5M ago1:32:34

1:32:34

In Episode 118, Sofia interviews Lucas Botkin! Lucas Botkin is an entrepreneur, innovator, and educator in the firearms industry. In 2013, with just $1,000 and an iPod Touch, he launched T.REX ARMS from a small garage, turning a passion for protection and a vision for innovation into a multi-million dollar manufacturing and retail company. What beg…

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117: The Realities of Concealed Carry in a Bag: Julie Willis Talks Function, Training, and Zendira Part II 59:02

5M ago59:02

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In Episode 117, (Part 2 of Ep. 116) Sofia interviews Julie Willis, CEO and founder of Zendira, a company dedicated to designing stylish, functional bags specifically for carrying firearms. Julie takes us on her journey of creating Zendira, sharing how her personal experiences as a shooter and her deep understanding of women's unique needs in self-d…

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116: The Realities of Concealed Carry in a Bag: Julie Willis Talks Function, Training, and Zendira Part I 53:32

6M ago53:32

53:32

In Episode 116, Sofia interviews Julie Willis, CEO and founder of Zendira, a company dedicated to designing stylish, functional bags specifically for carrying firearms. Julie takes us on her journey of creating Zendira, sharing how her personal experiences as a shooter and her deep understanding of women's unique needs in self-defense led her to bu…

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115: Aimee Langdon: Breaking Into the Gun Industry, Partner Training, and Family Gun Safety 1:24:41

6M ago1:24:41

1:24:41

In Episode 115 of the She Shield Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Aimee Langdon, the President of Langdon Tactical Technology (LTT). Aimee is a seasoned global business professional with over 18 years of experience in business development, sales, and marketing. She has successfully led global sales and operations teams, demonstrating a steadfast…

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114: Modern Efficiency: Red Dot Mastery and Tactical Training with Modern Samurai Project 1:01:27

7M ago1:01:27

1:01:27

In this must-listen episode of She Shield, we welcome Scott Jedlinski of Modern Samurai Project, a leading voice in firearms training and tactical expertise. Known for his specialization in red dot-equipped pistols, Scott breaks down the advantages of this technology for both tactical professionals and civilian self-defense practitioners, sharing p…

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113: Law Enforcement Lessons: Two Point Control and Tactical Training with Sam Ferguson of Galo Combatives 1:08:08

7M ago1:08:08

1:08:08

In Episode 113, Sofia interviews Sam Ferguson! Sam Ferguson of Galo Combatives is a seasoned police officer with nearly a decade of service in Lexington, KY, and a skilled combat sports athlete specializing in grappling and striking. With extensive training in MMA, boxing, and Thai boxing, he brings a wealth of expertise to both sport and tactical …

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112: Last-Minute Holiday Gift Guide for the Safety Enthusiast and Gun Owner 19:14

7M ago19:14

19:14

In Episode 112, Sofia hosts the She Shield holiday special! In this episode, host Sofia shares her recommendations for personal safety and self-defense gift ideas to suit any budget. From concealed carry essentials to versatile training tools, this list has something for everyone. Whether you're shopping for a loved one or adding to your own wishli…

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111: Concealment Principles and Holster Manufacturing for On and Off-Body Carry with Andrew Henry of Henry Holsters 1:10:46

8M ago1:10:46

1:10:46

In Episode 111, Sofia interviews Andrew Henry of Henry Holsters! Andrew Henry is the owner of Henry Holsters, a cutting-edge holster company in Spencer, Indiana. Originally a trained luthier with college degrees in Viola Performance and Violinmaking, Andrew has brought his handcrafting skills to the world of kydex. Since 2008, Andrew has been metic…

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110: Competition, Personal Protection, and Adaptive Defense with Michaela Rososky 1:37:49

8M ago1:37:49

1:37:49

In Episode 110, Sofia interviews Michaela Rososky! Michaela grew up in Massachusetts, and her medical journey has been anything but straightforward-- but despite these challenges, Michaela’s story is one of triumph over adversity. In 2022, Michaela discovered a passion for firearms training—a pursuit that not only gave her a means of self-protectio…

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109: Disarming and Defense Tactics with Kato Murakami of Rectitude Training 1:34:45

8M ago1:34:45

1:34:45

In Episode 109, Sofia interviews Kerry "Kato" Murakami! In this episode, Sofia interviews Kato Murakami, a retired law enforcement officer with 28 years of patrol experience in Illinois. As the founder of Rectitude Training, LLC, Kato is dedicated to equipping both officers and civilians with practical, effective defensive tactics. At the Combative…

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108: Training for Real-World Encounters: BJJ, Tactical Catch Wrestling, and Vehicle Extractions with Cliff Byerly 1:40:21

8M ago1:40:21

1:40:21

In Episode 108, Sofia interviews Cliff Byerly! We’re thrilled to have Cliff Byerly, owner of Hill Country Combatives, on the She Shield Podcast. Cliff is a former Marine with over 20 years of military service, including 12 years on active duty as a reconnaissance team leader with deployments to Somalia and Iraq. After his military service, Cliff jo…

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107: Combatives Summit Recap & Tactical Games Journey with Lisa Hamilton Part II 31:33

9M ago31:33

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In Episode 107, Sofia interviews Lisa Hamilton. Don't miss this two-part episode of the She Shield Podcast, where Sofia and Lisa take you on a double adventure! First, they share their unique experiences at the 2024 Combatives Association Summit—a three-day event filled with world-class self-defense training. With Sofia’s 13 years of combatives exp…

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106: Combatives Summit Recap & Tactical Games Journey with Lisa Hamilton Part I 55:00

9M ago55:00

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In Episode 106, Sofia interviews Lisa Hamilton. Don't miss this two-part episode of the She Shield Podcast, where Sofia and Lisa take you on a double adventure! First, they share their unique experiences at the 2024 Combatives Association Summit—a three-day event filled with world-class self-defense training. With Sofia’s 13 years of combatives exp…

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105: What Is Shoot Sig And Who Is It For? With Lena Miculek 34:22

10M ago34:22

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In Episode 105, Sofia interviews Lena Miculek. Lena is an idol for all women interested in gaining independence with firearms and a Professional shooter with eight world titles. Lena comes from a family of leaders in the firearms industry, as Lena's mother founded one of the original programs to teach women shooting. Lena joined forces with Sig Sau…

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Episode 104: Reboot Guy Schnitzler on Small Impact Weapons and Defensive Tactics 1:37:06

10M ago1:37:06

1:37:06

In Episode 104, Sofia interviews Guy Schnitzler. Guy is a Rangemaster certified Master Handgun Instructor and Shotgun Instructor and holds several certifications including Red Zone Threat Management Empty Hand Knife Defense Instructor, Adaptive Striking Foundations Instructor, and Groundfighting Overview Foundations Instructor. He is also a certifi…

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103: Success and Overcoming Challenges in Competitive Shooting with Jalise Williams 1:06:58

10M ago1:06:58

1:06:58

In episode 103 Sofia interviewsthe incredible Jalise Williams, a professional shooter sponsored by Colt’s Manufacturing and a highly accomplished athlete. Jalise’s journey into the world of firearms began early—she started hunting with her father while still in diapers, shooting rifles and shotguns by age 4, and entering competitive shooting by the…

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102: Exploring Concealed Carry, The Outdoors, and Modern Self-Defense with Trevor Blue 1:33:47

10M ago1:33:47

1:33:47

In Episode 102, Sofia interviews Trevor Blue! Trevor Blue is a shooting coach and outdoorsman with over six years of experience working in the firearms industry. Originally from Indiana, Trevor moved to Arizona, where he now runs Skill Based, a mobile firearms training company. A wrestler and former Division 1 athlete, Trevor integrates the discipl…

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101: Reboot Brittany (@9mmBrit) on Realistic Competitive Shooting and Concealed Carry 1:01:26

11M ago1:01:26

1:01:26

Episode 101 is a repost of Episode 71- Sofia interviews Brittany (@9mmBrit). In the heart of Arizona, dental hygienist Brittany trades her dental tools for a 9mm, documenting her journey on "9mm Brit." Join us as she evolves from a firearm novice to a competitive force in USPSA, IDPA, and the Steel Challenge. What sets Brittany apart? Her commitmen…

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100: Tactical Anatomy Summit Inspired by Dr. Williams Part II 49:53

11M ago49:53

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In this episode of the She Shield Podcast, we dive deep into the science and strategy behind effective defensive shooting with a focus on tactical anatomy. Join us for the first part of a two-part series as we explore the foundational principles taught by Dr. James S. Williams, M.D., in his renowned Tactical Anatomy Shooting With X-Ray Vision Instr…

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99: Tactical Anatomy Summit Inspired by Dr. Williams Part I 57:11

11M ago57:11

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In this episode of the She Shield Podcast, we dive deep into the science and strategy behind effective defensive shooting with a focus on tactical anatomy. Join us for the first part of a two-part series as we explore the foundational principles taught by Dr. James S. Williams, M.D., in his renowned Tactical Anatomy Shooting With X-Ray Vision Instr…

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98: The Dynamic Vision Behind Hunters HD Gold with Brian Conley 2:16:06

12M ago2:16:06

2:16:06

In Episode 98, Sofia interviews Brian Conley! Brian Conley is a seasoned expert in the vision care industry, with a passion for innovation. Brian’s journey in optics began through his wife, Sherry, who owns Optical Prescription Lab (OPL) in Pelham, Alabama. Since its establishment in 1977, OPL has been a leading provider of high-quality lenses for …

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97: Ep. 54 Reboot Mike Seeklander on Competition Shooting, Concealed Carry, and Live Fire App 1:15:24

12M ago1:15:24

1:15:24

In Episode 97, Sofia interviews Mike Seeklander, a combat veteran of Desert Shield and Desert Storm, with five years of active duty and four years of reserve duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, as an intelligence specialist and primary marksmanship instructor. Mike is most commonly known as a nationally ranked competitor on the practical handgun competi…

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96: Part II The Intersection of Hunting and Self-Defense with Caleb Giddings of Taurus USA 1:27:52

12M ago1:27:52

1:27:52

In Episode 96, Sofia interviews Caleb Giddings (again). Hailing from the sun-soaked shores of California and currently residing in the heartland of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Caleb's journey is a whirlwind of adventure and expertise. With a career rooted in the firearms industry and a past life as a sharp-witted insurance agent, Caleb's story is as…

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95: Part I The Intersection of Hunting and Self-Defense with Caleb Giddings of Taurus USA 1:01:00

12M ago1:01:00

1:01:00

In Episode 95, Sofia interviews Caleb Giddings (again). Hailing from the sun-soaked shores of California and currently residing in the heartland of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Caleb's journey is a whirlwind of adventure and expertise. With a career rooted in the firearms industry and a past life as a sharp-witted insurance agent, Caleb's story is as…

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94: Prepare like an Olympian with Gabby Franco- Olympian, Firearms Instructor, Competitive Shooter, and Author 1:37:02

1y ago1:37:02

1:37:02

In Episode 94, Sofia interviews Gabby Franco, a true trailblazer in the world of shooting sports. Gabby Franco made history as the first female shooter to represent Venezuela in the Olympics. Beyond her Olympic achievements, she is an accomplished author, speaker, competitive shooter, and instructor, recognized globally for her exceptional shooting…

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93: Simplifying Self-Defense Tactics and the 2024 Combatives Association Summit with John Valentine 1:07:14

1y ago1:07:14

1:07:14

In Episode 93, Sofia interviews John Valentine! John is an expert in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Modern Army Combatives, and firearms training. John is a black belt under Matt Larsen, the "Father of Modern Combatives" and is a Rangemaster Instructor with Top Gun Honors. John instructs for Green Ops, Hill Country Combatives, and Sheepdog Response. With nea…

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92: Ep. 33 Reboot of Sarah Albrecht from Hold My Guns on Mental Health Resources for Gun Owners 1:40:04

1y ago1:40:04

1:40:04

In Episode 92, we revisit Episode 33 wherein Sofia interviews Sarah Albrecht, the Founder and Executive Director of Hold my Guns® (HMG). HMG is a non-profit organization that offers Crisis Awareness Training and partners with federal firearm licensed locations to provide off-site firearm storage for those who are struggling with mental health among…

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91: Getting Started with Instructing and Mentoring in the Firearms Community with Uncle Zo 1:00:24

1y ago1:00:24

1:00:24

In Episode 91, Sofia interviews Uncle Zo. The two met at the Rangemaster Instructor Development Course by Tom Givens. Uncle Zo's journey into the world of firearms began in 2013, well into adulthood, and shortly after relocating to Texas. Since then, his passion for guns and the outdoors has grown exponentially. From obtaining his license to carry …

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90: Tour Protection: Safeguarding Celebrities and Everyday Safety with Todd Fox 1:54:08

1y ago1:54:08

1:54:08

In Episode 90, Sofia interviews Todd Fox. Fox is the Founder and Managing Director of the Close Protection Corps, a specialized services firm established in 1999, providing protective services to celebrities, dignitaries, and executives in challenging environments. Known for successful operations in regions like Mexico, Colombia, Iraq, and Russia, …

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89: Defending Your Health: Inside-Out Wellness with Ilriana Balaj 1:54:28

1y ago1:54:28

1:54:28

In this special episode of the She Shield Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Ilriana Balaj, the inspiring founder of Live Healthillie. Ilriana is a dedicated health and wellness advocate with a mission to empower individuals to take control of their health through informed and mindful choices. Her platform, Live Healthillie, focuses on holistic we…

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88: Armed Parenting: Balancing Safety and Preparedness with Melody Lauer of Citizens Defense Research 2:07:22

1y ago2:07:22

2:07:22

In Episode 88, Sofia interviews Melody Lauer. Lauer is a force to be reckoned with in the realm of self-defense and personal protection. She is a seasoned expert in self-defense and personal protection. She has over fourteen years of experience and a slew of certifications—including Rangemaster Certified Advanced Handgun Instructor and Deadly Force…

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87: How to Navigate Training With Your Partner with Jill Sharp Part II 53:00

1y ago53:00

53:00

In Episode 87, Sofia interviews Jill Sharp. Jill is a registered nurse at Boyce VA Medical Center, a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and a passionate advocate for personal safety, especially for healthcare workers. Jill shares her journey from nursing school to becoming a certified instructor for the VA in preventive and management of disruptiv…

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86: Personal Protection for Healthcare Workers by Jill Sharp Part I 1:13:10

1y ago1:13:10

1:13:10

In Episode 86, Sofia interviews Jill Sharp. Jill is a registered nurse at Boyce VA Medical Center, a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and a passionate advocate for personal safety, especially for healthcare workers. Jill shares her journey from nursing school to becoming a certified instructor for the VA in preventive and management of disruptiv…

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85: Finding the Balance of Competition Shooting and Concealed Carry with Hunter Constantine Part II 1:01:23

1y ago1:01:23

1:01:23

In Episode 84, Sofia interviews Hunter Constantine! Both marksman and a dedicated instructor, Constantine has left a mark on the firearms community, showcasing not only his exceptional skill on the range but also his unwavering commitment to improving the capabilities of shooters across all levels. From local matches to national competitions, Hunte…

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84: Finding the Balance of Competition Shooting and Concealed Carry with Hunter Constantine Part I 1:08:06

1y ago1:08:06

1:08:06

In Episode 84, Sofia interviews Hunter Constantine! Both marksman and a dedicated instructor, Constantine has left a mark on the firearms community, showcasing not only his exceptional skill on the range but also his unwavering commitment to improving the capabilities of shooters across all levels. From local matches to national competitions, Hunte…

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83: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for Women's Self-Defense and Competition with Jocelyn Castillo 1:18:30

1+ y ago1:18:30

1:18:30

In Episode 83, Sofia interviews Jocelyn Castillo! Jocelyn is the epitome of strength and smarts; she's not only an engineer specializing in her company's fixed asset integrity program but also a dedicated practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. With over 11 years on the mats, she's earned the respected rank of Brown Belt and hasn't stopped there. Joce…

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82: Phlster Holsters and Concealment with Jon and Sarah Hauptman Reboot 1:29:12

1+ y ago1:29:12

1:29:12

In Episode 82, Sofia interviews Jon and Sarah Hauptman (rebooted)! The Hauptman’s are two pioneering figures in the holster industry and passionate advocates for concealed carry education. With years of dedication, experimentation, and expertise, Jon and Sarah have reshaped the landscape of concealment solutions. Sarah Hauptman, often referred to a…

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81: The Intersection of Airsoft, Firearms, Gaming, and Movie Consulting with Gregory Wong 2:14:18

1+ y ago2:14:18

2:14:18

In Episode 81, Sofia interviews Gregory Wong! Starting his adventure in 2006-2007, Gregory delved into the world of Airsoft and YouTube content creation. His initial strides led him to Airsoft Extreme in Santa Clara, where he embraced the CA M15A4 CQB as his inaugural Automatic Electric Gun. In 2008, Gregory embarked on a new chapter by enlisting i…

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80: The Story Behind Synergy Training Group with Tyler Tharp 1:19:12

1+ y ago1:19:12

1:19:12

In Episode 80, Sofia interviews Tyler Tharp! Hailing from the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Tyler brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. As the lead instructor at Synergy Training Group, Tyler's background as a competitive shooter speaks volumes. With successes in 2-gun, USPSA, and IDPA, including A class in USPSA and Master in…

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79: Discussing Holster Mechanics, Concealment, and Jiu-Jitsu with Andrew Henry of Henry Holsters Part II 1:16:46

1+ y ago1:16:46

1:16:46

In Episode 79, Sofia interviews Andrew Henry of Henry Holsters! Andrew Henry is the owner of Henry Holsters, a cutting-edge holster company in Spencer, Indiana. Originally a trained luthier with college degrees in Viola Performance and Violinmaking, Andrew has brought his handcrafting skills to the world of kydex. Since 2008, Andrew has been meticu…

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78: Discussing Holster Mechanics, Concealment, and Jiu-Jitsu with Andrew Henry of Henry Holsters Part I 1:51:08

1+ y ago1:51:08

1:51:08

In Episode 78, Sofia interviews Andrew Henry of Henry Holsters! Andrew Henry is the owner of Henry Holsters, a cutting-edge holster company in Spencer, Indiana. Originally a trained luthier with college degrees in Viola Performance and Violinmaking, Andrew has brought his handcrafting skills to the world of kydex. Since 2008, Andrew has been meticu…

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77: Revolvers in the Modern World & Home-Defense by Caleb Giddings of Taurus USA 1:55:10

1+ y ago1:55:10

1:55:10

In Episode 77, Sofia interviews Caleb Giddings. Hailing from the sun-soaked shores of California and currently residing in the heartland of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Caleb's journey is a whirlwind of adventure and expertise. With a career rooted in the firearms industry and a past life as a sharp-witted insurance agent, Caleb's story is as diverse…

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76: The Warrior's Path: Matthew Little’s Martial Arts and Firearms Evolution (Greybeard Actual) 1:33:56

1+ y ago1:33:56

1:33:56

In Episode 76 of She Shield Podcast, we delve into the fascinating journey of Matthew Little—a US Army Special Forces combat veteran with extensive law enforcement experience. Matthew's martial arts journey began in his youth and has shaped his approach to life, both in training firearms and honing his body and mind. With a background as a national…

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75: Gift Guide For Your Valentine Self-Defense Edition with Lisa Hamilton 1:33:41

1+ y ago1:33:41

1:33:41

In Episode 75, Sofia and Lisa discuss what you can get for your Valentine this season of love. From self-defense classes to heart jewelry, the duo covers it all! Tune in for some advice and laughs and see the gift guide below for your reference. Follow the pod on Instagram for more episode updates @sheshieldpod. Thank you all for your encouragement…

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74: Mike Hughes on the Origin of SIRT Pistols and NextLevel Training Methodology 1:42:30

1+ y ago1:42:30

1:42:30

In Episode 74, Sofia interviews Mike Hughes, the Founder of SIRT and NextLevel Training. Mike is a multifaceted individual with a diverse range of achievements and experiences, from being a contestant on the History Channel's Top Shot Season Three, to founding and presiding over Next Level Training in Ferndale, Washington. Mike's journey began at t…