War is the natural state of man—success depends on constant struggle, strength of character, and surrounding yourself with people of virtue.

Episode Summary:

On this episode of The Gun Experiment, I sit down with Matt Larsen, head of the U.S. Army's combatives program, for a deep, no-B.S. discussion about guns, philosophy, AI, economics, and what it means to be a high-value man. We dive into everything from how the gun industry uses marketing strategies (just like everyone else), to the ongoing fight for Second Amendment rights and the realities of government overreach. We also chat about the rise of AI and its effects on education, the global technology race with China, and why moral character (not just money or status) truly defines a high-value individual. Finally, we tackle masculinity, the lost boy generation, and why the people you choose to surround yourself with will make or break your life.

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Show Sponsors:

I want to thank the Second Amendment Foundation for sponsoring tonight’s show. They’re in the courtroom every single day defending your right to own, carry, and train with firearms. Visit saf.org to support the most effective pro-gun rights group in the country.

Key Takeaways:

• The gun industry's marketing tactics are no different from any other retail sector—people buy what they love.
• Legal and political fights for the Second Amendment are ongoing; victories happen incrementally, and staying grounded is crucial.
• AI is revolutionizing communication and education, but it's both exciting and a little scary—prompting well is a skill of the future.
• The US and China are locked in an economic and technological race; economic power trumps military might in shaping global influence.
• High-value men are defined by character, loyalty, and the ability to raise up others—not by money, status, or online bravado.
• Masculinity is under attack in popular culture, but Gen Z men are swinging back toward traditional values.
• Your success and safety hinge on surrounding yourself with good people—character will always matter more than cash.

Matt Larsen

Head of the U.S. Army Combatives Program

Renowned trainer, author, and advocate for building strength in mind and body. Matt’s career in the military and security sectors spans decades. He’s passionate about teaching the next generation not just how to fight, but how to think, stay humble, and be men of character.

Keywords:

Second Amendment, gun rights, gun industry, firearms, ATF, Matt Larsen, military, AI, artificial intelligence, prompt engineering, China, US economy, masculinity, lost boy generation, character, high-value man, podcast, The Gun Experiment, economic competition, national security, West Point, education, trades, raising young men, culture shift