Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Modern Day Sniper Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Precision & Purpose: A Deep Dive with Sam Carlson of Thunder Beast | MDS Episode #0126 | 24 Nov 2025 | 01:29:36 | |
Caylen Wojcik sits down with competitive shooter, match director, and Thunder Beast Arms Corp shooter Sam Carlson for a long, thoughtful, and refreshingly transparent discussion about the places where precision rifle shooting, personal growth, trauma, ego, and self-awareness intersect. What begins as an exploration of ayahuasca, psychedelics, and healing quickly unfolds into a powerful conversation about what it truly means to pursue mastery — not just behind the rifle, but in life. Sam shares his journey from military service to addiction, recovery, and eventually finding structure, purpose, and accountability through long-range shooting. Caylen discusses the parallels between inner work and marksmanship: intention, presence, humility, and the willingness to face what’s really going on under the hood. Together, they break down how shooting becomes a feedback loop for identity — revealing your mindset, exposing your blind spots, and sharpening your awareness one trigger press at a time. The conversation evolves into an in-depth look at the competitive shooting world, match culture, mentorship, and how community becomes a stabilizing force for people rebuilding their lives or searching for their next mission. From there, Caylen and Sam get technical: recoil science, gas flow, the development of the Thunder Beast Magnus suppressor line, how brake-integrated cans changed the game, spotting your own impacts in hunting, cartridge selection, barrel life, and why tracking your round count matters more than most shooters realize. Sam also shares the origin of the Barrel Burner app, a tool he and Thunder Beast engineer Curtis developed to track barrel life, brass, components, suppressor maintenance, and overall rifle system data — born directly from real-world needs, not theory. This is more than a rifle conversation. It’s a human one — about drive, discipline, intention, and the communities that help us stay grounded. Whether you’re a competitor, hunter, student, instructor, or someone who just loves honest conversations about growth and performance, this episode will leave you thinking long after it’s over.
CONNECT WITH US Modern Day Sniper Thunder Beast Arms Corp | |||
| Wind, Intuition & the Science of Precision Shooting | MDS Episode #0125 | 27 Oct 2025 | 01:53:28 | |
Former Marine Scout Sniper and Instructor Owen Mulder joins Caylen Wojcik in the Modern Day Sniper studio for the first time — a conversation that dives deep into the art and science of reading the wind, training intuition, and performing under pressure. | |||
| MDS Episode #0116 - Who Is Landen Jones - Our LE Sniper Program Director | 23 Feb 2025 | 01:26:37 | |
In this episode, I’m sitting down with Landen Jones. Landen Jones is a former US Army Sniper, a current Cowlitz County Deputy Sheriff, and the lead sniper for the XXX regional SWAT team. Landen comes to Modern Day Sniper with the same goals and vision as what drives us - evolve and expand, and he wants to bring that to law enforcement sniper training, nationwide. I wanted to sit down with Landen and get to know him a little better, and explore the reason(s) that he got himself into the world of sniping. Landen is a guy who’s passionate about his craft, and dedicated to building himself into an effective and efficient communicator. We discuss Landen’s background, some of his combat experience as a sniper in the GWOT, and how he found himself in his current role at his day job, and where he’s at with us at Modern Day Sniper. Want to train with us at an In-Person class this year? There’s nothing quite like an in-person class experience, and we’ve got some awesome places to train this year! Check out our schedule, I’m sure we’re close to you somewhere! https://www.moderndaysniper.com/events Can’t make it into an in-person class? No sweat, we’ve got you covered with the best online training programs out there today. Monthly subscription services and digital masterclasses - those are our jam, come see what we’ve got to offer and get 14 days FREE with your membership. https://www.moderndayrifleman.com Looking for Community? Check out our FREE online community at the Modern Day Rifleman Network. At 10,000 members, it’s the fastest growing community out there that’s focused on long range shooting. You’ll find mountains of free information, articles, informative posts, and people like you that are dedicated to progress. https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/ Check out our YouTube page too - we’re just getting started, but there’s a lot of great information there already. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_e_PUcPUM8G-RGHDsZEKTg As usual, our social media pages are alos places you can follow us for information, inspiration, and notices on new stuff. IG - @ moderndaysniper | |||
| MDS Episode #0026: ARC Actions, Tikka Project and Law Enforcement Qual | 24 Jul 2020 | 01:22:28 | |
Phil and Caylen are physically together for the first time to record a video podcast! On this episode they catch up on a few projects both are working on. Caylen talks about the new American Rifle Company actions he received, as well as some of the features of each action. Caylen shares the builds he plans on moving forward with each action. Phil talks about his “Tikka Budget Build” project he’s been wanting to work on for the longest time! Phil and Caylen talk about Modern Day Sniper’s Basic Law Enforcement Qualification and some of the challenges Phil faced when doing the qualification. Thanks for listening! Please share with a friend if you found value in this podcast! Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
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| MDS Episode #0025: The practicality of competition and intentions | 03 Jul 2020 | 01:19:58 | |
In this episode Phil and Caylen discuss a forum comment that questioned the validity of the fundamentals of marksmanship and “machismo” military stereotypes in the current state of precision shooting. The conversation covers topics such as trigger weights, modern competition rifles, and how the gear race has directed the sport of precision rifle to be in it’s current form. Phil and Caylen debrief the Sniper’s Hide Cup from a couple weeks ago and discuss some mistakes and successes.
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
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| MDS Episode #0024: Caylen and Phil Back At It | 17 Jun 2020 | 01:20:04 | |
Caylen and Phil are back at it after a brief hiatus. This was an awesome episode of catch-up conversation and diving deep into some great topics. With the training season back into full swing, they talk about what it means to be a good student and the process of learning, which then rolls into what they define as a bad shooter, a good shooter, and what separates those from a phenomenal shooter. The pair discusses other topics such as what it means to develop a standard, and how those standards are missing the mark in places around the community. They round up the conversations discussing what “line of white” means regarding the aiming process, and the new release of the Modern Day Sniper Fundamentals of Marksmanship course at the Online Schoolhouse.
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
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| MDS Episode #0023: Jacob Bynum and Assassin's Way | 10 Jun 2020 | 00:53:04 | |
After an unpleasant hiatus from our microphones (we sincerely apologize) we’re back at with an interview with Jacob Bynum, the creator of the future Assassin’s Way rifle match, entertaining questions from a Facebook Live question and answer session. Although things went well with the content and the questions, our technology skills need some work and you can expect a better experience next go-round. In the end, Jacob answered a lot of questions; hypothetical, by third-party, and live feed via our Facebook Live event. Thanks to everyone for listening, and please reach out to Jacob direct if you have any questions!
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
https://www.facebook.com/jacob.bynum.39
https://www.facebook.com/riflesonly/
https://www.facebook.com/RiflesOnlyAssassinsWay/
https://www.instagram.com/rifles_only/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/bynum.jacob/?hl=en
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| MDS Episode #0022: We host Ryan Cleckner of Gun University | 22 May 2020 | 01:10:41 | |
We had a great opportunity to get to know Ryan Cleckner in this episode. Caylen and Ryan explore Ryan’s path as a US Army Ranger sniper and how he progressed within that community. Ryan talks about how he got himself into the Army’s sniper program and how the lessons he learned as a young Ranger translate to his career today as a firearms attorney and his newly established online venture, Gun University. We enjoyed getting to know Ryan, and you can be sure to hear more from him in the future!
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
Gun University: https://gununiversity.com/ | |||
| MDS Episode #0021: Caylen and Phil catch up and talk shop | 20 May 2020 | 01:14:42 | |
Brian the podcast editor here! Caylen and Phil are back! First part of the podcast they catch up on their lives and Phil has a some exciting news! Halfway in they start chatting about wind and shooting in the mountains. Near the end they get into the love for teaching, competition shooting and all highs & lows it comes with. Then they wrap it up with future topics and some updates. You don't want to miss this one!
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
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| MDS Episode #0020: Len Waldron on the modern hunting rifle | 13 May 2020 | 01:38:52 | |
With Phil getting the Gunwerks Long Range University training season started, we invited a great friend on the podcast, Mr. Len Waldron. Len is an accomplished outdoor writer, experienced rifle hunter, and the owner of a newly patented firearms lubricant, EDC CLP. During this podcast, Caylen and Len discuss the progression of the rifle hunter over the last decade, and how new rifles, optics, and most importantly bullet design and construction allow the modern rifle hunter to ethically and responsibly extend their effective range when pursuing game. They discuss some epic hunting trips and adventures of the past and how those experiences drive training to establish new baselines.
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
EDC CLP Firearms Lubricant https://edcclp.com/
Waldron Pond Outdoors https://www.youtube.com/user/fincam61/videos
IG: https://www.instagram.com/waldron.pond/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WaldronPond/ | |||
| MDS Episode #0019: Cody Carroll on tiger stripes, blue jeans, and maximum libo | 06 May 2020 | 01:38:37 | |
In this episode, we host a special guest; Mr. Cody Carroll. Cody is a long-time friend of ours, and truly a wealth of information pertaining to all things regarding military operations, from strategic planning to executing small-unit guerrilla tactics. A true professional soldier and a lethal sniper, Cody has one of the most diverse military backgrounds of anyone we’ve ever met. He’s also a self-proclaimed libo hound, which we can verify with steadfast assuredness. Enjoy the listen!
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
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| MDS Episode #0018: What it means to be a Volunteer | 29 Apr 2020 | 01:24:23 | |
In this episode Caylen and Phil build on the previous; going a bit deeper into their philosophy on the mindset of the sniper and the shooter. This time they dig into what it means to be a volunteer, and all the responsibility that comes with being a member of a volunteer unit. The conversation moves into touching on ego, what it is, and the cop out of telling someone to put their ego aside without fully understanding it’s meaning and how it affects performance.
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
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| MDS Episode #0017: What it takes to be a sniper | 26 Apr 2020 | 01:32:46 | |
In this episode Caylen and Phil discuss the release of the Modern Day Sniper online Schoolhouse, and dive into what it takes to be a sniper candidate, answering the question presented by lots of listeners. They discuss the mindset needed, the physical preparations, and the personality traits and ethos the organization is looking for.
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
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| MDS Episode #0115 - Galen Shea - The Chemistry of CLR | 19 Feb 2025 | 01:09:28 | |
In this episode of the Modern Day Sniper Podcast we’ve brought on Galen Shea for a conversation on rifle cleaning solvents, more specifically, CLR. Galen Shea is a dedicated local shooter in the Pacific Northwest. He frequents NRL 22 matches, as well as many of the club and regional centerfire PRS matches. Galen’s professional expertise lies as a chemical engineer for the gas and oil industry, so I wanted to bring him on the podcast to talk about the cleaning solvent that initially took the precision rifle world by storm, but just as quickly fell out of favor due to lack of understanding of what the chemical is, and what it does to rifle barrel steel. By no means am I attempting to re-open a can of worms - aways follow your chosen rifle barrel manufacturer’s recommendations and instructions - I’m simply curious about the “why” so I wanted to talk with a chemist and learn more. Our conversation flows into discussing some competitive shooting mindset, and Galen’s goals for the upcoming season. I hope you enjoy this one! Want to train with us at an In-Person class this year? There’s nothing quite like an in-person class experience, and we’ve got some awesome places to train this year! Check out our schedule, I’m sure we’re close to you somewhere! https://www.moderndaysniper.com/events Can’t make it into an in-person class? No sweat, we’ve got you covered with the best online training programs out there today. Monthly subscription services and digital masterclasses - those are our jam, come see what we’ve got to offer and get 14 days FREE with your membership. https://www.moderndayrifleman.com Looking for Community? Check out our FREE online community at the Modern Day Rifleman Network. At 10,000 members, it’s the fastest growing community out there that’s focused on long range shooting. You’ll find mountains of free information, articles, informative posts, and people like you that are dedicated to progress. https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/ Check out our YouTube page too - we’re just getting started, but there’s a lot of great information there already. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_e_PUcPUM8G-RGHDsZEKTg As usual, our social media pages are alos places you can follow us for information, inspiration, and notices on new stuff. IG - @ moderndaysniper | |||
| MDS Episode #0016: We Host Ridgeline Defense | 15 Apr 2020 | 01:46:04 | |
Caylen and Phil invite some special guests to the show from Ridgeline Defense, Rudy Gonsior and Alex Hartmann. Rudy is a former US Marine, and a former US Army Green Beret who served on multiple tours overseas as an assaulter and a sniper, and Alex Hartmann is the president of Ridgeline Defense, a former US Marine, and a fellow Hunter of Gunmen who has also completed several deployments as a sniper. During this episode your hosts and guests discuss training philosophy and most importantly, what you should be looking for in a shooting instructor, how their curriculum is structured, and how important it is to vet that instructor. There’s lots of bits on mindset and training in this one, enjoy!
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
Contact Rudy and Alex:
https://www.ridgelineshooting.com/
https://www.instagram.com/ridgeline_defense/
https://www.instagram.com/rudesgonz/
https://www.instagram.com/hartmann_0317/
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| MDS Episode #0015: Caylen and Phil talk Fundamentals | 08 Apr 2020 | 01:17:10 | |
In this episode, Caylen and Phil dive into the fundamentals as they discuss ways to keep your skills sharp while you’re stuck at home. The conversation covers a lot of the small details on what you should be looking for in your shooting position by elevating your level of awareness of what’s really going on with your body while you work to obtain a solid shooting position. Lots of tips in this one on the finer details of marksmanship. They also cover the upcoming release of the Modern Day Sniper Online Schoolhouse, and some other new items on the horizon.
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
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| MDS Episode #0014: Scott Satterlee and Hand Loading | 01 Apr 2020 | 01:28:32 | |
You asked about hand loading, so we listened! We have a special guest on the podcast who needs no introduction in the precision shooting world, Mr. Scott Satterlee. Scott is a renowned handloading “tinkerer”, and we wanted to go straight to the source for the latest information regarding handloading. Scott takes us through his process of brass preparation, when to trim and anneal cases, and his process for developing the load. There are mountains of information in this episode, so have a pen and paper handy! We’re really excited to have this opportunity to talk with Scott and to give you an opportunity to hear what he’s got to say. If you’re looking for more information on this, check out the link below to a recent article that Scott contributed to on the effects of bullet jump and accuracy written by the guys at the Precision Rifle Blog and Mark Gordon of Short Action Customs. We sincerely hope that this helps streamline your reloading process, spending less time at the bench and more time on the range.
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
Scott Satterlee: https://www.instagram.com/sstacllc/ | |||
| MDS Q&A Episode #0013: with Caylen | 29 Mar 2020 | 01:00:11 | |
Caylen flies solo on this episode answering some listener questions. Before he dives in, he talks about the new online training courses coming together, a little deeper look into what it means to have “mindfulness behind the rifle,” and the benefits of a morning routine setting the precedence for your day. The Q&A was a great spread of questions, ranging from barrels, being wary of the man who only owns one rifle, reticles, external ballistics questions, and rifle fit. Caylen wraps it up talking about the importance of keeping a shooter’s journal and the impact it can have on your training progression.
Live Webinar: Alchemy of a Rifleman
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| MDS Episode #0114 - Colton Bagnoli | 30 Jan 2025 | 01:31:26 | |
Carbon Fiber Barrels: What You Need to Know In this conversation, Caylen Wojcik and Colton Bagnoli discuss Colton's diverse experiences in the outdoors, including his transition from law enforcement to becoming a fly fishing guide and a writer for firearms publications. They delve into the importance of connection to nature, the challenges of teaching outdoor skills, and the intricacies of rifle barrels, particularly carbon fiber barrels, and their performance in various shooting scenarios. In this conversation, Caylen and Colton discuss the intricacies of rifle accuracy, the critical role of barrel quality in rifle building, and their experiences hunting with 22 caliber rifles in Africa. They emphasize the importance of understanding ammunition effects, the ethical considerations in hunting, and the performance of different bullet types on various game animals. The discussion highlights the evolving perceptions of rifle effectiveness and the significance of proper shot placement and bullet composition. In this conversation, Colton and Caylen delve into the intricacies of ethical hunting practices, emphasizing the importance of shot placement and understanding bullet performance. They discuss the significance of experience in hunting, particularly in tracking wounded animals and the challenges that arise. The conversation also touches on the evolution of hunting knowledge, the impact of modern technology, and the necessity of returning to legacy skills in the face of changing hunting environments. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Adventures 02:00 Colton Bagnoli: Background and Career 05:31 Transitioning from Law Enforcement to Writing 09:05 The Life of a Fly Fishing Guide 15:54 Connection to the Outdoors and Teaching 16:15 Rifle Barrels: A Deep Dive 21:27 Carbon Fiber Barrels: Performance and Expectations 31:08 Understanding Rifle Accuracy and Ammunition Effects 37:30 The Importance of Barrel Quality in Rifle Building 46:57 Experiences with 22 Caliber Rifles in Africa 58:08 Hunting Ethics and Bullet Performance 01:02:22 Ethical Hunting Practices and Shot Placement 01:04:45 Understanding Bullet Performance and Construction 01:06:48 The Importance of Experience in Hunting 01:08:52 Impact Velocity and Bullet Expansion 01:10:21 Tracking Wounded Animals and Recovery Challenges 01:12:50 Legacy Skills in Modern Hunting 01:16:45 The Evolution of Hunting Knowledge and Technology Here’s some of the publications where you can find Colton’s work: https://www.shootingtimes.com/ https://www.petersenshunting.com/ https://www.gunsandammo.com/editorial/review-pof-rogue-1375-inch-rifle/497151 https://www.petersenshunting.com/editorial/rimfire-training-to-improve-hunting/500889 Find Colton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/papwinkle/ | |||
| MDS Episode #0113 - Mark D'Ambrosio - Resilience and Self-Discovery in the Wilderness | 21 Jan 2025 | 01:03:21 | |
Resilience and Self-Discovery in the Wilderness Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Audio Setup 03:05 Wine Taps and Metal Fabrication 05:51 Skills and Experiences in the Wilderness 08:53 Mark's Background and Military Experience 11:57 Transitioning to Teaching and Business Ventures 15:00 The Impact of Wilderness Experiences 17:53 Self-Discovery Through Adversity 20:47 Raising Resilient Children 24:00 Rites of Passage and Masculinity 28:05 Rite of Passage and Personal Growth 31:01 The Silent Operator Program Overview 36:04 Transformative Experiences in Nature 43:00 Building Confidence and Overcoming Fears 50:02 Teamwork and Community in Challenging Environments 56:01 The Impact of the Silent Operator Program Interested in the Silent Operator Program? Find out more information below: https://www.thesilentoperator.com/ Visit Mark’s social media: https://www.instagram.com/markdambrosio_official/ Learn more about Modern Day Rifleman and our growing community: Come experience an in-person Modern Day Sniper training class! Our 2025 Schedule is UP! https://www.moderndaysniper.com/events | |||
| MDS Episode #0112 - Caylen Unplugged #1 | 29 Nov 2024 | 01:02:40 | |
For 2025 and beyond, I’d like to bring you guys a new style of podcast for me - solo-casts.
I haven’t been 100% comfortable in the past with sitting by myself in front of the camera. It felt a bit on the arrogant side, and for me arrogance is a tough nut to crack. I do believe that there’s a balance to it though, it’s delicate, but nonetheless a balance. So, I'm going to use this style of delivery to get comfortable with what once was - uncomfortable!
In the future you can expect to see these solo-casts on the regular as I sit and discuss topics that I’m seeing, experiencing, and coming to understand. It’s what you guys are after-raw, and real talk about the stuff you’re looking to find answers for.
Some of it might be inflammatory, but hey, that’s on you to navigate for yourself - only you are responsible for your emotions and reactions to them.
This is me, unplugged. | |||
| MDS Episode #0111 - Tim Parkhurst Marine Scout Sniper Heritage Foundation | 26 Nov 2024 | 01:25:22 | |
In this episode, Caylen sits down with Tim Parkhurst, President of the Marine Scout Sniper Heritage Foundation, to discuss the mission of preserving the legacy of Marine Scout Snipers. Tim shares fascinating historical insights, the foundation’s efforts to build a lasting memorial at Quantico, and the monumental task of uncovering lost history and honoring fallen snipers. They dive into the challenges and triumphs of the sniper community, the evolution of the program, and how listeners can support through initiatives like an exclusive rifle raffle, which ends Wednesday evening, November 27th, and a brick paver program. Learn how the foundation is ensuring the sacrifices and contributions of scout snipers are never forgotten. Visit scoutsniperheritage.org to get involved! | |||
| MDS Episode #0110 - Neurobiology and Psychology for Snipers with Owen Mulder | 06 Oct 2024 | 01:41:31 | |
In this in-depth conversation, Caylen Wojcik and Owen Mulder uncover the science behind elite shooting performance. They explore the neurobiology and psychology that influence a sniper's mental game, discussing key concepts like sight wobble, the startle response, and the all-important trigger control. Learn how managing stress, refining your focus, and building automaticity through structured practice can elevate your shooting skills. From archery to firearms, this episode dives into the cognitive and emotional aspects that top shooters must master to perform under pressure. Topics Covered: - Managing burnout and mental stress in high-stakes shooting - The psychology of sight wobble and the startle response - Why mastering trigger control is the key to success - How cognitive rehearsal builds muscle memory and automaticity - Expert tips on troubleshooting your shooting techniques - The emotional dynamics of shooting: staying calm under pressure Want to join our sniper community? Explore exclusive training content, events, and a thriving community at Modern Day Rifleman. Whether you're looking to enhance your marksmanship or connect with fellow shooters, we’ve got you covered! Join the community: https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/ Access Expert Sniper Education & Events Modern Day Sniper is dedicated to providing high-quality education, mentorship, and live events to help you master precision shooting. Check out our upcoming courses, live sessions, and educational resources. Visit our education portal: https://www.moderndaysniper.shop/ Reloading Evolution Event: https://www.moderndaysniper.shop/events Follow Us for More Precision Insights: Instagram: @ModernDaySniper Join the conversation, elevate your shooting, and be a part of the Modern Day Rifleman community! | |||
| MDS Episode #0109 - David Cantu & Ken Smith | 18 Sep 2024 | 01:10:00 | |
Welcome back to a new episode of the Modern Day Sniper Podcast! During this episode I sat down with two of my great friends, David Cantu and Ken Smith. David and Ken are precision rifle competitors and hunters here in the Pacific Northwest and I’ve had the pleasure of training and watching them grow as shooters here for the last decade. David’s entry into the sport was not by fire, but by ice, as his first experience was a frigid four days in the eastern Washington no-man’s land, and Ken’s initiation wasn’t too far off. Both of these individuals have taken to this sport with an incredible desire to progress, and adhere to the foundational principles of marksmanship the whole way. They didn’t just throw gear at the process - they committed themselves to learning the fundamentals and then added the assisting bits and pieces along the way. It’s been a pleasure to watch them both grow in this sport and their progress is a testament to their dedication to the mastery of the basics. It was a great conversation with lots of nuggets of information in there, so make sure you’re present and take notes! This episode is available on all of the mainstream audio podcasting channels, along with a video version hosted on our YouTube channel. We hope you enjoy the show, and please make sure to leave us feedback on what you think. We read all of your comments and take them to heart! If you’re not already a member at the Modern Day Rifleman Network, make sure you cruise over and get yourself a profile. With your membership, you get one month FREE access to our Modern Day Rifleman Advantage program, which is our monthly subscription service, PLUS access to our content vault with over 200 hours of high-quality and relevant content that you’re looking for. https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/ No sense not to come over and check that out, it’s like nothing you’ve experienced before with online training…. Come train with us! | |||
| MDS Episode #0108 - Scout/Snipers, Shenanigans, and the Marine Corps: Inside the Sniper's Perspective | 07 Aug 2024 | 02:29:52 | |
On this episode of the podcast we invite Jeff “Skully” Escalderon and John Spurling to the show to discuss their perspective on their time serving in the Marine Corps as Scout/Snipers and as instructors. These guys hold nothing back on the podcast as they provide a candid and captivating look into the world of Marine Corps Scout Snipers. Through their personal experiences and recollections of former Scout Sniper, you’ll be taken on a journey that explores the unique culture, training, and missions of this largely misunderstood fraternity of men. From the rigorous selection process to the high-stakes operations, this episode offers an unparalleled insider's perspective on the life of a Marine Scout Sniper. Listeners will be immersed in the camaraderie, challenges, and triumphs that defined this specialized community, gaining a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices and skills required to excel in this demanding role that unfortunately no longer exists within the United States Marine Corps.
Don’t forget to check out our community at www.moderndayrifleman.com ! It’s free and there’s over 8 thousand members in there just like you sharing up to date information on the topics you want to know about!
Check out Modern Day Sniper’s In-Person Class Schedule too! Come train with us!
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/moderndayrifleman
Modern Day Sniper’s Social Media Channels:
IG: @moderndaysniper YouTube: https://youtube.com/@moderndaysniper?si=8GC2mEc0Ia9acdjg | |||
| MDS Episode #0107 - Precision, Passion, and Personal Growth: Welcoming Aaron Martin to the Modern Day Sniper Podcast | 25 Jul 2024 | 01:23:22 | |
In this episode of the Modern Day Sniper Podcast, Caylen Wojcik welcomes Aaron Martin, a new addition to the Modern Day Sniper and Modern Day Rifleman cadre. They discuss Aaron's background as a precision rifle instructor and former Marine, including his time in the Scout Sniper community. They also cover topics such as the importance of understanding recoil management, the psychological aspects of shooting, and the challenges of teaching students with varying skill levels. Additionally, they touch on the recent events involving former President Trump and the need to approach such situations with caution and professionalism rather than speculation.
Check out Aaron’s website and social media channels
Website: https://tensecondprecision.com/ IG: @tensecondprecision YouTube: https://youtube.com/@tensecondprecision?si=mQQ19gtG4AafmI2g
Don’t forget to check out our community at www.moderndayrifleman.com ! It’s free and there’s over 8 thousand members in there just like you sharing up to date information on the topics you want to know about!
Check out Modern Day Sniper’s In-Person Class Schedule too! Come train with us!
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/moderndayrifleman
Modern Day Sniper’s Social Media Channels:
IG: @moderndaysniper YouTube: https://youtube.com/@moderndaysniper?si=8GC2mEc0Ia9acdjg | |||
| Snipers of the Revolution: Daniel Morgan & Louis Wetzel | MDS Episode #0124 | 20 Sep 2025 | 01:42:46 | |
Welcome back to the Modern Day Sniper Podcast. In this history lesson, we close out the life of Louis Wetzel, the infamous frontier rifleman, and dive into the rise of Daniel Morgan, one of the most impactful American riflemen of the Revolutionary War. From Wetzel’s frontier legend to Morgan’s decisive role at Quebec, Saratoga, and Cowpens, this episode unpacks how early American riflemen reshaped the battlefield through grit, innovation, and precision. Along the way, we connect these stories to the modern sniper community—leadership, autonomy, and the timeless lessons of force multipliers. What you’ll hear in this episode:
This isn’t just history—it’s a blueprint for riflemen. From the Revolution to the modern era, precision shooters have carried the weight of turning points. Train with Modern Day Sniper Join the global rifleman community: https://www.moderndayrifleman.com Explore digital masterclasses:https://www.moderndaysniper.com/online-training | |||
| MDS Episode #0106 - Managing Fear with Tony Blauer | 27 Jun 2024 | 01:36:21 | |
In this episode we welcome Tony Blauer of Blauer Tactical Training Systems. Tony Blauer explores the vital role of fear management in personal safety and self-defense, critiquing traditional training methods in favor of understanding the psychology and physiology of fear. He stresses self-awareness in navigating violent situations and discusses how fear affects shooting and decision-making, linking neurobiology to marksmanship. Blauer distinguishes between choking and freezing under pressure, emphasizing the need for coaches to address fear blocks in students. Overall, he advocates for using fear as a catalyst for bravery and emphasizes the importance of enhancing mental speed and self-awareness in optimizing performance and safety.
Takeaways - Understanding and managing fear is crucial in personal safety and self-defense. - Self-awareness plays a key role in navigating violent encounters and making effective decisions. - Fear management is essential in shooting and marksmanship, as the neurobiological response to shooting can impact performance. - Improving self-awareness enhances critical thinking and decision-making in various aspects of life. - Managing fear is crucial in various contexts, including self-defense and precision shooting. - Coaches need to understand and address fear blocks in their students to help them overcome performance obstacles. - There is a distinction between choking and freezing, with choking being a result of trained individuals not being able to access their skills under pressure. - Self-awareness plays a key role in managing fear and improving performance. Find Tony Blauer here:
Check out some awesome deals from Tony and get sweet discounts on his programs! 1) SPEAR System® Combatives Camp:
2) Human Weapon System:
3) Know Fear® Seminar:
Don't miss these opportunities to train with one of the best in the field! This episode is brought to you by Really Right Stuff tripods, the best tripods for precision shooting and long-range hunting. Discover the stability and versatility of Really Right Stuff tripods to enhance your shooting experience. Learn more at Really Right Stuff. Train with us In-Person: Join Our Classes Join our Free Online Community: Modern Day Rifleman Visit our Website: Modern Day Sniper Follow us on Instagram: @moderndaysniper Enjoy the episode and until next time, evolve with every shot. | |||
| MDS Episode #0105 - Long Range Legend Carl Taylor | 14 Jun 2024 | 02:04:35 | |
In this episode, Caylen sits down with Carl Taylor from In Motion Targets, an experienced figure in the precision rifle community. Join us as we dive into Carl’s background, his contributions to the sniper community, and his journey through the Guardian Long Range match in Colville, Washington. Carl is one of the pioneers in the precision rifle sport, especially in the Pacific Northwest. Known for organizing challenging matches that test shooters' skills in locating, ranging, and engaging targets, Carl has been a significant influence in advancing the sport. Learn more about Carl's work at In Motion Targets. Topics Covered:
Support the Guardian Long Range: We highly encourage everyone to check out Guardian Long Range and support their events. It’s a fantastic charity that does amazing work for kids across the nation. Find a match near you and participate to make a difference.
This episode is brought to you by Really Right Stuff tripods, the best tripods for precision shooting and long-range hunting. Discover the stability and versatility of Really Right Stuff tripods to enhance your shooting experience. Learn more about Really Right Stuff tripods here. Train with us In-Person: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/m... Join our Free Online Community: https://www.moderndayrifleman.com Visit our website: Follow us on IG: @moderndaysniper Enjoy the episode and until next time, evolve with every shot. | |||
| MDS Episode #0104 - Mastering Precision Rifle Shooting with Jacob Bynum | 11 Jun 2024 | 01:01:35 | |
In this episode Caylen talks with the legendary Jacob Bynum from Rifles Only. Jacob is a true pioneer in the field of precision rifle shooting, and we are always excited to have him on the show because he brings us back to the pure fundamentals of marksmanship. In this episode, we dive into:
This episode is packed with valuable insights for shooters of all levels. Don’t miss out on this chance to learn from one of the best in the industry. Check out Jacob’s website at riflesonly.com for more information on training opportunities. Enjoy the episode and until next time, evolve with every shot.
Register for the Leadville class: Train with us In-Person: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/m...
Join our Free Online Community: https://www.moderndayrifleman.com
Visit our website:
Follow us on IG: Enjoy the episode and until next time, evolve with every shot. | |||
| MDS Episode #0103 - The Ethical Hunter: Responsible Practices in the African Plains | 27 Mar 2024 | 01:28:14 | |
In this episode, Caylen sits down with his good friend, Len Waldron to discuss hunting in Africa and WWII. Len Waldron prepares for a hunting trip in Africa and reminisces about their previous adventures. They discuss the importance of ethical hunting practices and responsible management of animal populations. Len also shares stories about their grandfather's experiences as a pilot in World War II, highlighting the challenges and dangers of combat missions. The podcast concludes with a discussion of rifle marksmanship techniques, safety protocols, and the importance of proper rifle setup and maintenance for hunting in different environments. Find out What your Shooter Ability is here: https://survey.typeform.com/to/G3O65DID?typeform-source=www.moderndayrifleman.com Train with us In-Person: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/moderndayrifleman Join our Free Online Community: https://www.moderndayrifleman.com Find out more About Us: https://www.moderndaysniper.com Follow us on Instagram: Modern Day Sniper - https://www.instagram.com/moderndaysniper/ Phillip Velayo https://www.instagram.com/velayo_0317/ Caylen Wojcik - https://www.instagram.com/caylen8541/ | |||
| MDS Episode #0102 - Debunking Gun Myths: Accuracy & Reloading for Practical Shooters w JD Thomas | 06 Mar 2024 | 01:21:26 | |
This episode explores the world of precision shooting and gunsmithing. Learn about gun design, intricate barrel making, reloading techniques, and the mental focus needed for peak accuracy. Caylen and JD Thomas share insights for both enthusiasts and professionals. Find out What your Shooter Ability is here: https://moderndaysniper.com/assessment Train with us In-Person: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/moderndayrifleman Join our Free Online Community: https://www.moderndayrifleman.com Find out more About Us: https://www.moderndaysniper.com Follow us on Instagram: Modern Day Sniper - https://www.instagram.com/moderndaysniper/ Phillip Velayo - https://www.instagram.com/velayo_0317/ Caylen Wojcik - https://www.instagram.com/caylen8541/
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| MDS Episode #0101 - Inside the Mind of an Elite Skydiver ft. V Buck Priv | 21 Feb 2024 | 01:19:43 | |
In this podcast, host Caylen Wojcik and Competitive Sky Diver V Buck Prib converse about the realities of high-level extreme sports. They discuss safety measures, rigorous training, mental preparation, costs, and more. Caylen and Prib share experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of mastering basics and the role of visualization in performance improvement. They also share how to handle immense competition pressures and the importance of mentorship. They reflect on their mistakes as learning opportunities, underscoring the value of experience in skydiving and competitive shooting. This episode provides insight into extreme sports and valuable life lessons. Enjoy! | |||
| MDS Episode #0100 - The Future of Modern Day Sniper | 14 Feb 2024 | 01:47:57 | |
Welcome to our 100th Episode! This is a big deal for us! Today Caylen and Phillip sit down to discuss the future of Modern Day Sniper and where we’re headed for 2024 and beyond. The pair discuss the new in-person class naming convention and the reasons that they decided to make some adjustments to the curriculum. Caylen and Phil also give you the low-down on the NEW Modern Day Sniper logo and the reason behind the need to change it. We hope you all enjoy the episode and don’t forget to come see up inside the Modern Day Rifleman Network! For those who prefer to watch podcasts, this is live on our YouTube. | |||
| MDS Episode #0099 - Blending a Passion for Teaching and Precision Rifle with James Wazeter | 07 Feb 2024 | 01:48:10 | |
In this episode, we sit down with one of our Modern Day Riflemen, James Wazeter. We dive into his systematic approach to precision shooting, his coaching experience in the fitness industry, and his passion for long-range bolt rifles. In our discussion, we cover a range of topics from parenting to precision rifle training, techniques, and competition. We explore the importance of focused training, breaking down skills into subunits, and the psychological aspects of competitive shooting. James shares his experiences and insights on shooting competitions, and we discuss the overlap of skills between competitive shooting and hunting. | |||
| MDS Episode #0098 - Veteran Experiences and Transition Challenges with Mike Lilly | 01 Feb 2024 | 01:38:09 | |
Welcome to the Modern Day Sniper Podcast Episode 98, where we have a heartfelt discussion with special guest Mike Lilly, a well-known figure in the Precision Rifle Series and the National Rifle League's Hunter Series. Mike and his wife run the successful YouTube channel, "Long Range with the Lilies." In this episode, we delve into some heavy topics related to the emotions and challenges veterans face when transitioning from military service to civilian life. We hope to provide some relief and understanding for those going through similar experiences. You can find more from Mike Lilly on his YouTube channel. Enjoy the episode! Long Range With the Lillys | |||
| MDS Episode #0097: PRS + WPR | 30 Jan 2024 | 01:44:24 | |
In this podcast, Phillip sits down with the Director of PRS Ken Wheeler and Western Precision Rifle founder Peter Kneip. They discuss the integration of the PRS Regional Series with the Western Precision Rifle community in order to further grow the sport of precision rifle in the Wyoming, Montana and South/North Dakota areas.
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| Modern Marksmanship, Wind Reading & Law Enforcement Sniper Lessons | MDS Episode #0123 | 09 Sep 2025 | 00:53:16 | |
In this episode of the Modern Day Sniper Podcast, Caylen Wojcik reconnects with competitive shooter Nate Humbard for an unplanned deep dive into the fundamentals of rifle craft. What started as a “History Lesson” recording turned into 60+ minutes of raw shop talk on the realities of marksmanship, recoil management, wind calls, competition prep, and law enforcement sniper training. We break down:
Nate also shares highlights from his summer match season—rimfire, centerfire, and F-Class—while Caylen unpacks lessons learned from recent classes at Nailspring Ranch, including how shoot houses, trigger-cam AV setups, and diverse terrain make for some of the best training environments in the country. Next Week: We’re back to the History Lesson series with a spotlight on Daniel Morgan—don’t miss it. Train with Us (last chances for 2025)
Coming Soon Wind Reading Blueprint – our most comprehensive digital masterclass yet Coming Soon!! Connect with Modern Day Sniper
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| MDS Episode #0096: Pigg River 2023 Recap with John Carughi | 08 Dec 2023 | 02:00:30 | |
The team sits down in Virginia after wrapping up our 4th year at Pigg River. We have John Carughi on this podcast also known as “Weapon Snatcher.” The team recaps the 4 days of training, some common trends as well as diving deep into the mental headspace of long range shooting and performance.
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| MDS Episode #0095: Creating Opportunities with Matt Solowynsky | 27 Sep 2023 | 01:59:48 | |
Phillip sits down with Matt Solowynsky from R&S Solutions to discuss creating opportunities. Despite still being an active duty Marine, Matt shares how he navigates his transition process with retirement on the horizon. They explore various topics such as the importance of networking, building a personal brand, and honing transferable skills. They also discuss the challenges that young snipers may face during the transition out of the military and provide practical advice on how to overcome them. Matt emphasizes the significance of setting goals, seeking mentorship, and taking advantage of educational resources. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of proactive planning and strategic thinking to ensure a successful and fulfilling transition into civilian life.
Join the Modern Day Rifleman Network: School House
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| MDS Episode #0094 The YO Ranch and the Ole’ Timers | 20 Sep 2023 | 01:19:38 | |
Caylen and Phillip have an in-depth discussion about their recent event at the Y.O. Ranch, a stunning location situated just outside of San Antonio, Texas. During their conversation, they touch upon the exciting prospects of providing training to individuals with diverse backgrounds and skill sets. This includes catering to both aspiring snipers and non-snipers, accommodating a wide range of experience levels. From novices who have never handled a precision rifle before, to seasoned professionals attending the course for sustainment training, the event offers a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse group of participants. They briefly talk about the Scout Sniper community and its unfortunate demise. Lastly, they talk about the opportunity to shoot with movers and their thought process behind making an intuition base lead.
Join the Modern Day Rifleman Network: School House
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| MDS Episode #0093 Tripods and the Mountains | 29 Aug 2023 | 00:59:52 | |
In this podcast, Phillip and Caylen discuss effective communication with students of all skill levels and shooting experience. They also provide tips on selecting the right tripod for shooting specific to their applications. Finally, they share their recent scouting and hunting experience in the mountains, offering insights into the challenges and importance of being prepared for hunting. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in precision rifle shooting and hunting!
Join the Modern Day Rifleman Network: School House
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| MDS Episode #0092: The Tripod Masterclass is Coming... | 14 Aug 2023 | 01:17:38 | |
In this episode the MDS team takes a deep dive into what they’re learning while developing and filming our upcoming Tripod Shooting Masterclass. This is a compilation of a lot of little tidbits of discoveries that the team has been uncovering while focusing on nothing but shooting from tripods in the recent weeks. Big topics of discussion here are the effects of pressures being put into the system and how those pressures affect both accuracy and rifle movement during the process of recoil.
Join the Modern Day Rifleman Network: School House
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| MDS Episode #0091: Dealing with Imposter Syndrome | 11 Aug 2023 | 01:09:40 | |
In this episode, Caylen, Phil, and Ryan dive deep into the behind-the-scenes aspects of the firearm industry, offering their unique perspectives and insights on dealing with trolls and overall negativity that inherently comes with this job. Furthermore, the trio explores the concept of imposter syndrome, a phenomenon that affects many professionals in various industries, including firearms.
Join the Modern Day Rifleman Network: School House
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| MDS Episode #0090: NRL Hunter Utah Recap | 05 Jul 2023 | 00:54:58 | |
In this podcast episode, Phil and Ryan take a deep dive into their experience at the NRL Hunter in Utah competition that they recently participated in as a team. They go over the various stages they encountered, including some of the obstacles they had to overcome, the techniques they used to achieve success, and the lessons they learned along the way. Not only did they share the good moments, but they also delved into the bad ones and discussed how they could have done better. The discussion also covered the importance of preparation, teamwork, and communication in the competition. Furthermore, Ryan will be teaching Intro to Precision and Scoped Carbine at the same venue, so they took the opportunity to do some range reconnaissance and familiarize themselves with the surroundings. They talked about the significance of knowing the range and how it can help in better performance.
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| MDS Episode #0089 - Big Guns and the Mental Game | 22 Jun 2023 | 01:19:52 | |
In this episode of the Modern Day Sniper Podcast, Phillip and Caylen discuss various topics related to shooting, including the importance of balance in life, having a solid baseline in your career, different levels of awareness and mental approach to competition, and how to break the stress response in your body. They also talk about the difference between a PRS match and a general hunter, adapting your body to different tripod heights, and the benefits and drawbacks of heavy caliber rifles. At the end of the episode we share upcoming events and In-Person classes.
Join the Modern Day Rifleman Network: School House
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| MDS Episode #0088: Ryan and Caylen at MSTOA | 24 May 2023 | 01:38:34 | |
In this episode Ryan and Caylen are spending a week at the Mountain States Tactical officer’s Association annual meetings and training week. This is our 5th year consecutively supporting this effort and we’re always happy to be a part of it. In this conversation they boys turn on the mics for some after class chats about some of the trends they’re seeing in the training world, the finer points of rifle marksmanship as they relate to the body’s central nervous system, and some gas gun tidbits that stem from some projects that Ryan has been working on.
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| MDS Episode #0087 Kitchen Loads in the UK | 04 May 2023 | 01:23:44 | |
The Modern Day Sniper team is in the United Kingdom doing a series of classes with the precision rifle shooters of Great Britain. They sit down with Andy Simpson and James Bass, who are attending the Intro to Precision Rifle Course to talk about their experiences with the class. Andy and James, along with Trez, are the leadership of the Precision Rifle Series UK. We discuss some training scars and “bad habits” developed over time as a result of the fast growth of the precision rifle sport and the lack of formal training courses out in the European theater.
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| MDS Episode #0122 - How A PRS Champion Trains for Elite Rifle Competition w/ Corson Piper | 30 Jun 2025 | 01:41:38 | |
In this episode of the Modern Day Sniper Podcast, Caylen Wojcik sits down with Pacific Northwest shooter, craftsman, and all-around salt-of-the-earth human Corson Piper for an honest conversation on performance, pressure, and finding purpose behind the rifle. | |||
| MDS Episode #0086: Gary Larson and Guardian Long Range | 14 Apr 2023 | 01:05:54 | |
This was a great episode for us here at Modern Day Sniper because we welcomed Mr. Gary Larson from the Guardian Long Range series. The Guardian series of events is 100% non-profit and all the proceeds of these events go towards local organizations to assist with disadvantaged kids in the foster care system. The cause behind these events is beyond admirable, and supporting these events means direct, actionable change for kids out there that didn’t have a choice to be where they’re at in their lives. Please check out the Guardian series of events using the links below, and we hope to see you all at the Guardian’s Washington state event this coming May.
https://guardianlongrange.com/
https://www.facebook.com/GuardianLongRange/
https://www.instagram.com/guardianlongrange/?hl=en
https://practiscore.com/2023-guardian-long-range-washington/register
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