Explore every episode of the podcast The Harden Up Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ep 48: CDR Bill Burwell- USCG Rescue Pilot | 09 Sep 2024 | 01:06:15 | |
In this episode Matt talks with an active duty United States Coast Guard search and rescue pilot, Commander Bill Burwell. He has served over 18 years with assignments as duty pilot, instructor pilot and chief of aviation operations. Listen in as Bill dives into the challenges of rotary-wing flying, hair-raising rescue missions, and extreme duty stations Please enjoy the show! | |||
| EP 47: Standing Offhand on Police Snipers | 31 Jul 2024 | 01:43:35 | |
In this episode Matt talks with two guests, Jeff Chang - a police sniper/instructor and also a former Marine Corps sniper. Tyler Ellsworth is also a police sniper/instructor and owner/operator of Standing Offhand with co-owner Jeff. In this episode we discuss the Trump shooting incident, the police sniper mission, and selecting good candidates. Please enjoy the show! | |||
| EP 38: Pete Koch- Actor and Former NFL Defensive End | 31 Jul 2023 | 01:40:21 | |
In this episode Matt talks with former NFL defensive end Pete Koch about his athletic journey from high school, college, and the NFL. Pete dives deep into the mindset and attributes of the key coaches that fueled his success. Pete also shares his memorable experience filming the movie "Heartbreak Ridge" with Clint Eastwood and other active duty Recon Marines. Pete is now a successful personal fitness trainer that helps hundreds of everyday folks attain their fitness goals. Enjoy! Lowa Boots | |||
| EP 37: Kenny Stone of Soldiers on Singletrack | 31 May 2023 | 01:24:20 | |
In this episode Matt talks with Kenny Stone, an Army combat veteran and founder of the non-profit Soldiers on Singletrack (SOS). After multiple combat tours, Kenny returned home to civilian life and the associated loss of purpose and camaraderie. in search of therapy, Kenny dusted off his mountain bike and began seeing drastic mental and physical benefits from riding. He then founded SOS and created a community of fellow riders in search of healing and camaraderie. Soldiers on Singletrack https://soldiersonsingletrack.org/ IG: The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes: https://optempotraining.com/ @optempotraining on Instagram and Facebook Find us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriber Lowa Boots IG: @lowa.professional and @lowaboots https://www.lowaboots.com/ | |||
| Ep 36: Travis Gribble- SWAT Veteran and advocate | 28 Apr 2023 | 01:24:20 | |
In this episode Matt has an in-depth conversation with Travis Gribble, a fellow SWAT Officer, about LE life, training, and the personal toll of the job. The conversation dives deep into the psychological and emotional challenges of working the streets day in and day out. Travis also details his personal account of an incident that shocked the conscience of all on scene and took years to overcome. Travis now shares his story nationally to inspire other Officers to talk about and deal with their own struggles without fear of alienation. Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 35: Brad Frederick of Kinetic Concepts Group | 30 Mar 2023 | 01:35:49 | |
In this episode Matt talks with Brad, a Marine Corps veteran, Police Officer and CEO of Kinetic Concepts Group. Brad has worked multiple assignments to include parol, SWAT, and plainclothes street teams. During his time on the job, Brad has identified multiple tactical problems Officers face and has found methods to address them. Listen to Matt and Brad as they dive deep into LE training trends and how quality instructors are making a difference. Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 34: Mike Ott- Ballistic Shield Innovator | 09 Feb 2023 | 00:33:19 | |
In this episode Matt talks with Mike Ott, a Police veteran with years 18 years of experience. Mike held multiple assignments to include SWAT, firearms instructor and K9 handler. During this time Mike gained valuable knowledge and insight to the construction and use of ballistic shields. After his law enforcement career, Mike moved on to working directly with armor manufacturers such as First Choice and Point Blank Enterprise. Mike's experience enabled him to design and test multiple shield sizes and shapes to greatly enhance operator use. Mike currently is the vice president of sales and training at Armourer's Choice. Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 32: Heather Brent- Blackhawk Crew Chief | 12 Dec 2022 | 01:07:25 | |
In this episode Matt talks with Heather Brent, a former television new journalist and now Army Blackhawk helicopter crew chief. Listen in as they discuss the struggles of being a young, single mom, professional who later decides to switch careers. Hear Heather's story as she recounts the change from journalism to working with various non-profits and ultimately joining the Army reserve aviation program. Enjoy the show! Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 31: Sal Hernandez- SWAT Cop and Tactical Games athlete | 20 Oct 2022 | 00:56:47 | |
In this episode Matt talks with Sal Hernandez, a law enforcement SWAT Officer and Tactical Games athlete. Listen in as they discuss the journey of becoming a SWAT Officer and the continual training that keeps teams sharp. Sal also recounts his deployment down to Uvalde as a supporting SWAT team. Sal is also an accomplished Tactical Games athlete, with more than 10 podium finishes in the elite men's division. Enjoy the show! Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 30: Yousef Sansour of Esoteric LLC | 23 Sep 2022 | 01:12:24 | |
In this episode Matt talks with Yousef Sansour, a law enforcement veteran, counter-terrorism expert, and USPSA grand master. He spent years working with multiple government agencies on counter-terrorism missions after 9-11 while serving as a SWAT Officer. Over the 28+ years of his career he gained a vast amount of knowledge that he now passes on to current law enforcement professionals. Yousef now owns and operates the training organization Esoteric LLC. Enjoy the show! Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 29: Chris on Active Shooter Response | 04 Aug 2022 | 00:53:38 | |
In this episode Matt talks with one of the OpTempo instructors about active shooter events. Listen in as Chris, a law enforcement active shooter subject matter expert, discusses the history of active shooter incidents, the evolution of the law enforcement response, and what you can do to be better prepared for the unthinkable. Lowa Boots | |||
| EP 28: Byron Rogers of Protector Nation | 30 May 2022 | 01:03:58 | |
In this episode Matt sits down with Byron Rodgers, a Marine Corps combat veteran and 10-year Executive Protection professional. He has travelled the world working with high-level clients, while gaining a wealth of knowledge in the EP space. Byron is a successful entrepreneur that owns and operates The Bravo Research Group, Protector Nation, and the Executive Protection Lifestyle podcast. Enjoy the show! Byron Rodgers Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 46: Mike Kelly- USCG Rescue Swimmer Instructor | 31 May 2024 | 01:08:34 | |
In this episode Matt talks with an active duty United States Coast Guard rescue swimmer instructor. Mike served as a rescue swimmer for ten years prior to being selected as an instructor at the aviation survival technician (AST) school- one of the most stressful environments in military training. Listen in as Mike breaks down the selection process, testing and ultimate success criteria to join the elite USCG AST ranks! Please enjoy the show! | |||
| EP 27: Tom Rizzo of Street Cop Training | 15 Apr 2022 | 01:01:55 | |
In this episode Matt talks with Tom Rizzo, a Street Cop Training instructor and 20-year law enforcement veteran. Tom gained valuable knowledge serving on patrol, crime suppression units, and as academy and department instructor. Tom has also been an adjunct professor with new jersey university and Rutgers school of public affairs and administration. He’s the author of the book “COPIKAZE” and currently serves as the investigations division commander as a captain. Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 26: Jeff Chang of Standing Offhand | 15 Mar 2022 | 01:42:09 | |
In this episode Matt talks with Jeff Chang, a Police sniper subject matter expert. Jeff is a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran who deployed to two wars as a scout sniper and a private contractor. Jeff also spent the last 12 years on a major metropolitan SWAT team, finishing his time as the sniper team leader. Listen in as Jeff shares his story about being a sniper and going from military to law enforcement service, with all the lessons learned. Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 25: Nick Thayer of The Tactical Games | 08 Feb 2022 | 00:53:24 | |
On this episode Matt talks with Nick Thayer, the marketing manager of The Tactical Games. Nick is a United States Coast Guard Veteran who spent 10 years in the defense contracting industry after RELAD. He later became a CrossFit coach, photographer, and ultimately competed in The Tactical Games. Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 24: Maj (Ret.) Will Ostan of Arc of Justice | 14 Jan 2022 | 01:10:54 | |
On this episode Matt talks with the President and CEO of Arc of Justice USA, Maj (Ret.) Will Ostan. He served over 12 years in the U.S. Army as a JAG attorney, completing combat deployments with the 10th Mountain Division, 7th Special Forces Group, and Navy SEAL Team 5. In 2019 Will launched Arc of Justice, Advocates of Wounded Warriors. Their mission is to reforming the military's medical separation process via a Wounded Warrior Bill of Rights (WWBoR). Listen to Will's military journey and why a WWBoR is so vital. We highly encourage supporting this non-profit organization with a donation on their website. Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 23: Kara "The Huntress" of Deliverfund | 10 Dec 2021 | 01:13:18 | |
On this episode Matt talks with one of the nation’s leading human trafficker hunters, Kara Smith. She spent 12 years working in intelligence analysis in support of anti-terrorism. Starting her career in the air force, and then moving on to the NSA and FBI, she has taken those skills and now uses them to combat human trafficking with Deliverfund. Kara shares detailed information on the widespread human trafficking problem, and how criminals are preying upon our children, friends, and neighbors. You'll be amazed at how prevalent this truly is. We highly encourage supporting this non-profit organization with a donation on their website. | |||
| Ep 22: Taylor Mccubbin of ChimeraXR | 05 Nov 2021 | 00:57:29 | |
Taylor McCubbin is the CEO and co-founder of ChimeraXR. He is a 15 year veteran of the Canadian military. He worked as a full time firearms instructor at the largest air base in Canada and developed the first firearms and tactical simulation program for the air force. He later went on to work for Meggitt Training systems, the world’s largest firearms simulation manufacturer. A few years later he and a partner launched ChimeraXR and are now at the cutting edge of virtual reality training. ChimeraXR Mythos is a virtual reality training system which gives you the power to quickly simulate application of tactics in a modern, easy to use immersive environment. The immersive training experience will have you and your students training in minutes anywhere your agency is located. Quick to setup and easy to use, anyone can build and edit the drills and scenarios required for training. | |||
| Ep 21: Kenny Williams of Street Cop Training | 10 Oct 2021 | 01:00:25 | |
Sergeant Kenny Williams is one of the country’s leading experts in criminal vehicle interdiction. Sergeant Williams began his career in 2007, and currently works as a full time K9 interdiction officer. Williams has been personally responsible for the seizure of over 4 million dollars cash, several hundred pounds of illicit narcotics, and well over a ton of Marijuana. Williams has received countless awards for his work from numerous organizations and has established a national reputation. Williams is a fully certified EPIC and DIAP instructor. | |||
| Ep 20: Dr Justin Smith of Tactical Neuroscience | 08 Sep 2021 | 01:13:26 | |
Dr Justin Smith is a research Psychologist who has done groundbreaking work in the area of stress and anxiety in tactical applications. Justin performed PhD work in decision-making under life and death circumstances and how it relates to stress. His findings apply to Law Enforcement, Military, and high level Athletes. | |||
| EP 19: Scott Brady of Overland Journal | 16 Aug 2021 | 01:13:47 | |
Scott is an adventure driver and consultant who has worked on various specialty-vehicle projects for auto manufacturers, aftermarket companies, and television producers such as Top Gear. He is a passionate photographer and writer with international credits, the only American to have won the esteemed Outback Challenge, Morocco, and a Tread Lightly Master Trainer. Business ventures during the past decade include the Overland Society, Expeditions West, Expedition Portal, and Overland Journal. He has traveled through over 60 countries and across every continent. His most current project, Expeditions 7, is a round-the-world overland odyssey in two 78 Series Toyota Land Cruisers. After reaching the end of the road, he enjoys canyoneering, climbing, and mountain biking. Scott lives in Prescott, Arizona. | |||
| Ep 18: Direct Action Resource Center | 23 Jul 2021 | 00:17:48 | |
In this episode Matt shares his experience at the Direct Action Resource Center. Listen in on tips for how to prepare, what to expect, and overall take-aways from the course. Matt aso covers his personal gear list used for the course. | |||
| Ep 45: Jason Clark of BeaverFit USA | 26 Apr 2024 | 01:02:15 | |
In this episode Matt has an in-depth conversation with the Beaverfit USA director of training and education, Jason Clark. Jason is a combat Marine Corps veteran and former drill instructor. He later went on to work in the fitness industry and then as a strength and conditioning director for the Marie Corps HITT program. He also served on the advisory board for human performance at HQ Marine Corps. Please enjoy the show! | |||
| Ep 17: Tony Blauer of Blauer Spear System | 10 Jun 2021 | 01:18:12 | |
In this episode Matt talks with legendary self-defense coach Tony Blauer on the science of a fight and violence. Join them for a discussion on physiological response, stress inoculation, and being a better trainer. Tony dives deep into fear management and Police defensive tactics training during this eye opening conversation! | |||
| Ep 16: Mike Nguyen- Ambush on Police Survivor | 07 May 2021 | 01:04:26 | |
Join us as we talk with Mike Nguyen about his intense account of his Officer-involved shooting that nearly killed him. We discuss that fateful day that changed his life forever, his road to recovery, and the resilient mindset that brought him back to full duty! | |||
| Ep 15: Deliver Fund- The Fight Against Human Trafficking | 01 Apr 2021 | 00:50:12 | |
Listen and learn about the dark world of human trafficking from senior targeting analyst Shane Erikson of the non-profit Deliver Fund. We take a look at the modern methods criminals of human trafficking are using to prey upon our children, friends, and neighbors. You'll be amazed at how prevalent this truly is. We highly encourage supporting this organization with a donation on their website. | |||
| Ep 14: Pete Roberts of Origin USA | 05 Mar 2021 | 00:56:31 | |
In this episode we welcome Pete Roberts, founder of Origin USA. Join us as we talk Jiu-Jitsu, American manufacturing, and Pete's entrepreneurial journey. Listen how Pete went from a backyard workshop to a multi-location manufacturing company, picking up Jocko Willink as a business partner along the way. | |||
| Ep 13: Trung "Shinobi" Nguyen- Full-time SWAT Officer | 05 Feb 2021 | 01:06:27 | |
Join me for a great conversation with former Army Ranger and current SWAT COP, Trung Nguyen. Listen to Trung's story about growing up on the rough streets of Chicago as an immigrant and how he made his way to the U.S. Army and ultimately to the 275 Rangers. Trung also talks about life in law enforcement and his methods and mindset for continual training and progression. We also discuss his tribute project and website, "WE GO HOME." Enjoy! | |||
| Ep 12: Bear Training Solutions- Breach-able Training Doors | 07 Jan 2021 | 00:54:51 | |
Matt talks forcible entry with the founders of Bear Training Solutions Vince Diliberto and Josh Cummings. From building a prototype breaching trainging door by hand to now offering indutry-leading equipment, Bear Training Solutions is serious about their craft. Listen in as we discuss breaching tactics, tools, and training. | |||
| Ep 11: Tony Long- U.K. CTSFO Veteran | 03 Dec 2020 | 01:30:04 | |
Tony Long takes a deep dive into U.K. Police work and his impressive 30+ yr career. From a Bobby walking a beat to firearms Officer to becoming a memeber of the elite SCO19 unit, Tony shares lessons learned and differences of U.S. and U.K. Police work. Tony later went on to tell the tale of one of his Officer-involved shooting in his self-authored book "Lethal Force". | |||
| Ep 10: Neil Hudspeth- SOF Sniper Instructor | 10 Nov 2020 | 01:28:44 | |
Join Matt for his conversation with Neil Hudspeth, a 20-year Army Veteran with 14 years in Special Operations and multiple combat deployments. Neil shares his experiences as a Bradley driver, Special Forces K9 handler, Special Forces Sniper, and ultimately a sniper instructor. | |||
| Ep 9: Vince- Law Enforcement FTO | 05 Oct 2020 | 00:57:37 | |
Matt and one of the OPTEMPO instructors, Vince, sit down and talk about the current climate of Law Enforcement from the perspective of current Patrol Officers. The topics include the Officer hiring process, vetting, and training. This will be an on-going series with episodes discussing other areas of Law Enforcement. | |||
| Ep 8: Kurt Hohan- SOF Veteran | 01 Sep 2020 | 01:17:08 | |
Matt tracks down the elusive and busy Kurt to find out what he's been up to since his time with Fieldcraft Survival. Kurt is a 18-year Army Veteran with 10 years in Special Operations and multiple combat deployments. Matt and Kurt have an in-depth conversation about the current state of the country, the military, building an overland rig, and training philosophies. | |||
| Ep 44: Dennis Medina of Armored Breach | 01 Apr 2024 | 01:06:38 | |
In this episode Matt speaks with the inventor and founder of the guardian breaching shield, Dennis Medina. The company Armored Breach was formed as Dennis worked as a full-time SWAT Officer and mechanical breaching expert. Listen in as Matt and Dennis discuss SWAT training, trends, and the value of ballistic shields in operations. Please enjoy the show! | |||
| Ep 7: Ralph Juarez- Effective Police Fitness | 05 Aug 2020 | 01:03:43 | |
Ralph Juarez talks about his law enforcement journey and becoming an agency instructor. We also discuss his work with Effective Fitness Training (EFT) and the role physical fitness and training play in a successful law enforcement career. EFT sample: 4-5 100yd sprints at 70%-80% 4-6 sets of 4-cone box drill
EFT sample: 3 sets of 5 reps with heavy load while maintaining flat back
EFT sample: Farmer’s Carries - Carry heavy weights in both hands for 50-100ft. Then rest for 1-2 minutes and repeat 6-8 times. These too can be thrown into a metcon style workout to really challenge your grip and engine.
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| Ep 6: Nizan Tzudiker-Israel National Police Trainer | 24 Jun 2020 | 01:19:54 | |
Matt has an in-depth conversation with Nizan Tzudiker about the military, police, and training in Israel. Nizan talks about his career from IDF commando, Ambassador protection, to now heading the Israel National Police Academy firearms and Krav Maga programs. Nizan also sheds light on what make a good instructor and how to develop those attributes, a goldmine of information! | |||
| Ep 5: Darren Uyenoyama- MMA Fighter & Trainer | 03 Jun 2020 | 00:56:22 | |
Darren Uyenoyama shares his journey from collegiate athlete to a professional MMA and Jiu-Jitsu fighter, and later becoming a world-class coach. Darren talks about his time in Japan, common traits in successful professional fighters, and his continued growth as a coach and instructor. | |||
| Ep 4: Justin Flood- US Army Veteran | 05 May 2020 | 01:03:50 | |
Justin Flood shares his story about his time in the Army, including his deployments to Iraq and Kosovo. Justin advanced in the Army to First Sergeant with both infantry and CST/CBRN experience. While in the Army Justin discovered Jiu-Jitsu and began a 13 year training addiction that still continues. Justin and his wife also also own and operate the elderberry syrup brand "Whitney's Best". | |||
| Ep 3: Chad Cole- USMC Somalia Veteran | 31 Mar 2020 | 01:30:13 | |
Chad Cole talks about his Marine Corps time, including his deployments to Somalia in the Blackhawk Down era and to Los Angeles during the 1992 riots. Chad later went on to executive protection for H. Ross Perot and then authored the book "The Dirty Little Wars." Chad also runs the heavy metal-inspired clothing brand "Heavy Metal Thursday". | |||
| Ep 2: Freddy Camacho- Crossfit Pioneer | 05 Mar 2020 | 00:46:14 | |
Freddy Camacho talks about his former careers, including law enforcement, and how he landed in the CrossFit world. Freddy discusses being a gym owner, professional fighting, nutrition, and scaling workouts for the 40+ crowd. | |||
| Ep 1: Jason Silva- Executive Protection Professional | 29 Jan 2020 | 00:45:06 | |
Follow along as we recount stories from the Marine Corps infantry in Iraq, to policing the streets in a high crime city, to executive protection of high value clients. Find out what strategies Jason used to get to the top of his game. | |||
| Ep 43: Law Enforcement Counter Terrorism at DARC | 29 Feb 2024 | 00:19:15 | |
In this episode Matt reviews his recent visit to the direct action resource center for the level two law enforcement counter terrorism course. Hear about his experience at the course, gear selection, and tips for your training visit. Please enjoy the show! | |||
| Ep 42: Zack Sowers- USCG Rescue Swimmer | 29 Dec 2023 | 01:08:01 | |
In this episode Matt talks with an active duty United States Coast Guard rescue swimmer and learns more about their training and operations. AST Zack Sowers shares his insight into the difficult training pipeline to become an aviation survival technician (AST) and the moments of his first open ocean rescue, and his most recent save of six survivors. Please enjoy the show! | |||
| Ep 41: Mike O'Neil of San Jose PD MERGE | 04 Dec 2023 | 01:12:02 | |
In this episode Matt talks with the team commander of San Jose Police Department's full-time SWAT team , MERGE. Listen in to Mike's story covering his extensive law enforcement career in a multitude of assignments. Mike now commands MERGE and discusses team dynamics, selection and training, and the challenges of leading a team. Please enjoy the show! Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 40: Dave Weidner- Veteran Law Enforcement Firearms Trainer | 18 Oct 2023 | 01:22:55 | |
In this episode Matt has an in-depth conversation with Dave Weidner, a veteran Police Officer and trainer. Dave has a progressive ideology when it comes to firearms training and brings some of the nation's best trainers to his facility, where he supervises his agency firearms program. Dave is dedicated to providing cutting-edge training to his staff and deputies. Please enjoy the show! Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 39: Yousef Sansour of Esoteric LLC- Part 2 | 07 Sep 2023 | 01:16:01 | |
Yousef Sansour, a law enforcement veteran, counter-terrorism expert, and USPSA grand master, returns to the show. In this episode Yousef and Matt discuss trainging ideologies, SWAT team operations and the hostage rescue course Yousef presents. Enjoy the show! Lowa Boots | |||
| Ep 49: Mark Lang of Brinc Drones | 31 Oct 2024 | 01:23:40 | |
In this episode Matt talks with a law enforcement SWAT veteran, Mark Lang. He served for 23 years on a full-time SWAT team, specializing in the sniper billet. Mark is the director of sniper training for Tac Flow Academy and teaches for TTPOA and NTOA. Mark now works for BRINC drones and advocates for the use of drones in SWAT and patrol operations. Listen in as Mark talks about SWAT culture, the use of technology in L.E. and the future integration of DFR. Please enjoy the show! | |||
| Ep 51: Matt Klein- NYPD Detective (Ret) and Battle Tribe Founder | 31 Jan 2025 | 00:38:53 | |
In this episode I welcome Army combat veteran Matt Klein to the show! Matt is a retired NYPD Forensic sketch artist who used his artistic gifts and abilities to help solve multiple high-profile homicide and assault investigations. After his time in the military and law enforcement, Matt founded his creative project Battle Tribe! His engaging artwork blends elements of military, L.E. and pop culture in multiple media styles. Please enjoy the show! Battle Tribe website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BattleTribe | |||
| Ep 50: Rex Ingram- Police Chief | 30 Dec 2024 | 01:44:24 | |
In this episode I welcome our first Police Chief to the show, Chief Rex R. Ingram from the Caldwell Idaho police department. He has an extensive background from his 17 years at LAPD, where he worked on gang enforcement teams, a human trafficking task force, plainclothes operations, and patrol watch commander in some of LA’s toughest areas. He spoke candidly with me about leadership in policing, elevating LE performance and how administrators can support their officers. Please enjoy this conversation with Chief Rex R. Ingram! | |||