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Eric brings Justin “Danger” Carroll back on, this time with Molly Johnson. Justin is a Marine vet, deputy, part-time paramedic, volunteer SAR tech, and author of Competent and Dangerous.   Justin “Danger” Carroll  - Silent Swift Deadly Blog - ⁠https://www.swiftsilentdeadly.com/⁠ Molly is a paramedic (about five years), EMS for seven, and an Orangetheory coach. The conversation is about doing hard things on purpose—not talking about mindset, but building it. What they cover: What a GORUCK Tough actually is: rucksack (20- or 30-lb plate), “coupons” (sandbags, water, fire hose, beer cooler), 12 hours of team sufferingMolly’s first event: 70 burpees before they even started, then a 3.5-hour PT block on a Merrill’s Marauders themeTeam dynamics— how fast a group either comes together or doesn’tWhy the finish-line beer is the best beer you’ll ever drinkEMS/LE reality: compartmentalizing trauma, “feel-bad movies” as a pressure valve, and a pediatric arrest that turned into a later apology and hug with a civilianHelene response: water rescue, paper charts, downed comms, and why a simple AM/FM radio still matters when cell service is goneEric also talks about committing on air to a future GORUCK with them. Links / resources mentioned Justin’s book: Competent and Dangerous Justin’s first EvoSec episode (Competent & Dangerous)GORUCK events: https://www.goruck.com/Orangetheory FitnessJason McCarthy / GORUCK origin (SF background, pack company that became events)

This episode we talk about the up coming Cognitive Conclave 2026 with John Hearne, Lee Weems & Erick Gelhaus Get Registered: https://twopillarstraining.com/conclave/ Eric sits down with the Rangemaster “Chess Club”—John Hearne (Two Pillars Training), Lee Weems (First Person Safety), and Erick Gelhaus (Cougar Mountain Solutions)—to talk about the missing piece in most firearms training: thinking with a gun in your hand, which is the focus of the Cognitive Conclave course. They remember John Holschen, then get into why typical range work often looks more like “firing squad training” than real problem-solving. Decisions get stripped out of the drill. Then people are shocked when those skills don’t transfer. Main points from the conversation: John’s “doorbell assignment” analogy — most training tells you exactly what to shoot, when, and how many timesLee on Claude Werner’s line that a lot of instruction is just firing-squad work, and why the four safety rules have to live inside the course of fireErick on Scotty Reitz’s “blue tape / judgmental prez” drill, visual processing vs. audio cues, Neuros, and Mirage targetsForce-on-force is still the gold standard for complex decisions, but logistics limit reps. Cognitive-load live fire gives far more decision cycles in a dayTechnical skill still matters. Multiple sources (including Adam Biggs’ research, plus high-level shooters like Frank Proctor and Matt Little) point to about USPSA B-class as the point of diminishing returns — after that, thinking and tactics matter more than chasing the next classificationThis work is a supplement to force-on-force, not a replacementCognitive Conclave 2026: October 24–25 Coming up from the guests: Lee – Rangemaster reunion in December, TACCON presentation work, Enhanced Coaching SkillsErick – Low-light pistol (Meridian, ID), shotgun (Piru, CA), Problem Solving Pistol at Mead Hall (OK), Red Dot Instructor (New Orleans area)John – Who Wins / Who Loses lecture with Karl Rehn, Northwest Law Conference (Seattle), class with Chuck Pressburg at Mead HallLinks John Hearne – Two Pillars Training: https://twopillarstraining.com/Lee Weems – First Person Safety: https://firstpersonsafety.com/Erick Gelhaus – Cougar Mountain Solutions: https://www.cougarmountainsolutions.com/Erick also writes at AmericanCop.com

In this episode of the EvoSec Podcast, Eric sits down with Justin “Danger” Carroll, a long-time friend of the American Warrior Society crew and someone Eric has wanted on the show for years. Justin shares his path from a small Southern Appalachian town through eight years in the Marine Corps, overseas contracting, instructing at the Marine Special Operations Schoolhouse, writing books on digital privacy, becoming a paramedic, and now serving as a full-time deputy sheriff while still teaching EMS and law enforcement academies. Justin's awesome blog: https://www.swiftsilentdeadly.com/ The conversation centers on his excellent book Competent and Dangerous: Master the Skills to be a Man Among Men. the guide he wished he’d had as a 16-year-old. Topics covered include: Building real-world competence across fitness, mindset, EDC, finances, vehicle readiness, medical skills, digital security, physical security, wilderness skills, and social/people skillsWhy general competence matters more than hyper-specializationPractical first-aid and CPR lessons (including personal experiences)Firearms recommendations for everyday people (compact 9mm options, AR platforms like BCM, and strong advocacy for the shotgun)The value of continuous learning and putting yourself in environments that force growthA practical, no-nonsense discussion about becoming more capable in the real world. Highly recommended listening, and definitely pick up Justin’s book.

In this episode of the EvoSec Podcast, the Tactical Twins (Eric & Aaron) sit down with competitive shooter Sam Elam. Youtube: @ArmoredFlycatcher Sam shares his journey from a Kentucky tobacco farm and four years in the Marine Corps (early GWOT era) to becoming a multi-division IDPA Master and strong USPSA competitor in the competitive Oklahoma/Arkansas/Texas region. He discusses: Jumping into IDPA in March 2023 and rapidly shooting nearly 190 matchesThe high talent density in the Tulsa area and how local competition accelerates skillHis practical, sustainable training philosophy (short, consistent dry-fire, frequency over long sessions)Why he deliberately switched back to Glocks after running 2011s and Shadows—to expose and correct fundamental errors the heavier guns were maskingGear lessons, range culture, and balancing competition with family lifeA straightforward, no-BS conversation full of useful insights for anyone looking to improve at competition or practical pistol shooting. Support our sponsors: www.tenicor.com For more info on EvoSec: www.evosec.org/ Youtube @evosec2840 instagram and facebook @evosecusa

This is a throwback episode to our 2nd podcast # 49 with Craig Douglas back in July 2021.  Caveat:  Some of the topics in this show may or may not still be offered by Shivworks at this time, but suffice to say that Craig and his team are always innovating and are adaptive to their patrons.   Enjoy this fun episode, it is vastly different than most the interviews you will hear from Craig.  ////////////////////////////////.  This week we are extremely excited to have Craig Douglas of Shivworks back on the show. Craig is the father of the real life "Fight Club" with a gun or knife. His course work Extreme Close Quarters Concepts (ECQC) has changed the lives of countless people throughout the US and around the world. This show we change gears a bit and talk about Craig's newer Beta class Entangled Rifle Options (ERO), viability of the Carbine in Civilian defense, and the Rittenhouse shooting.  We also hit on Craig's love of clothes again and even get into some personal subjects as well.  . For more details on Craig's course work and his class schedule please visit his website at ⁠www.shivworks.com/⁠ Please subscribe and share our podcast with friends and family.  Visit our website for bios, future events and info at ⁠www.evosec.org⁠  Like, follow and share us on Facebook and Instagram @evosecusa Check out our awesome sponsors: Tenicor – ⁠www.tenicor.com⁠  they are educators, and innovators in the holster market.  They are firearms instructors themselves, pressure testing their gear in multiple force on force events every year.  We support those who do the work.

Show Notes: Lighter Carry Considerations – Mindset, Gear, and Real-World Tradeoffs EvoSec Podcast In this episode, Eric Davis is joined by two of his most frequent and favorite guests: Chris Lapre of Asymmetrical Options and Cecil Burch of Immediate Action Combatives. The conversation dives deep into the realities of everyday carry, lighter loadouts, vehicle sustainment, rifle choices, and the critical importance of software over hardware. From undercover work and non-permissive environments to long-term sustainment and practical rifle marksmanship, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom from seasoned professionals who have trained, taught, and lived these principles for decades. Software First: Why mindset, fitness, empty-hand skills, and verbal de-escalation matter more than gearLighter Everyday Carry Options: What Chris and Cecil actually carry day-to-day and whyContext-Driven Gear Choices: How loadouts change based on environment, dress code, and missionThe Myth of the Hero Complex: Why running toward active shooter events with just a pistol is usually a bad ideaRifle Considerations: Scout rifles, SBRs, 300 BLK, and practical long-gun choices for the modern citizenVehicle Sustainment Bags: What to carry for 3–5 days of self-relianceTraining Mindset: Practicing kneeling/sitting positions, natural point of aim, and realistic marksmanship standardsChris LaPre – Asymmetric OptionsWebsite & BioRetired law enforcement, longtime instructor, host of numerous high-level training classes, and advocate for practical, context-aware carry solutions.Cecil Burch – Immediate Action CombativesWebsite & Bio48+ years in martial arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, instructor, seminar host, and author known for blending empty-hand skills with weapons-based reality.With Winning in Mind – Lanny Bassham (mental management)Gun Site Scout Rifle concept (Jeff Cooper)Cabin Fever Challenge (practical rifle marksmanship)British Muzzle Loaders & On The Scout YouTube channelsRuger Gunsite Scout RifleLeupold Scout scopes & Hilux optics00:00 – Introductions & History09:30 – Software vs Hardware Mindset22:00 – Active Shooter Realities & Hero Complex27:00 – Everyday Carry Choices (Chris & Cecil)48:00 – Non-Permissive Environments & Clandestine Carry57:00 – Vehicle Sustainment & Travel Considerations1:13:00 – Rifle Choices & Scout Rifle Discussion1:27:00 – Upcoming Scout Rifle World ChampionshipConnect with the guests: Chris Lapre → Asymmetric OptionsCecil Burch → Immediate Action CombativesKey Topics Covered:Guests:Resources Mentioned:Timestamps:

In Episode 188 of the EvoSec Podcast, Eric sits down with Cade Cole of Roadhouse School for Hunters & Guides. Cade shares his journey from Texas to becoming a seasoned mountain hunting guide and discusses the common deficiencies he sees in modern hunters — ego, unrealistic expectations, and over-reliance on gear. They dive deep into practical marksmanship, why mastering your current rifle beats buying new ones, the value of the Scout Rifle concept, fitness, self-reliance, and real-world field skills versus flat-range training. A must-listen for hunters, shooters, and anyone valuing self-sufficiency and the frontiersman spirit. Websites & Contact Info: Roadhouse School for Hunters & GuidesFacebook: Search “Cade Cole”Instagram: @cadecole888 Email: [email protected]

In this episode of the EvoSec Podcast, tactical twins Eric & Aaron welcome Mark Smith of JBS Training Group. Mark shares his amazing rise from everyday gun owner to USPSA Grandmaster, the critical role of mental management in shooting (and life), and why most training fails to produce real results. Deep dives into effective dry/live fire practice, self-diagnosis, why gear won’t buy skill, and practical precision with gas guns and barricades. Packed with actionable advice, training philosophy, and mindset shifts that can transform your performance—plus a fun music chat at the end. Websites & Resources for Show Notes: JBS Training Group: jbstraininggroup.com (classes, schedule, info)Instagram: @jbs_training_groupTenicor YouTube: Search for Mark Smith / JBS episodes with Jeff Mao (highly recommended visual demos)Support our sponsors: www.tenicor.com/ Recommended Books: Recommended Books:With Winning in Mind by Lanny BashamThe Inner Game of Tennis by W. Timothy GallweyThe Talent Code by Daniel Coyle

November 6-8 Cecil Burch - Immediate Action Combatives Seminar – Ground & Clinch Yadkinville, NC http://www.iacombatives.com Come Join Eric as he AIs with Cecil, this is a life changing class so get signed up. Shivworks The Network  is live! https://theshivworksnetwork.com Tenicor's new OWB Holster MUC - Managing Unknown Contacts (Shivworks) New Tenicor holster - Sprint - Support our sponsors - they make the best gear for serious practitioners. https://tenicor.com/collections/all-holsters/products/sprint-holster-for-glock https://tenicor.com/

Chris Lapre is a former SWAT Commander for Pinal Country Arizona Sheriff's department and runs Asymmetric Options. Asymmetric Options provides training in firearms and tactics to Law Enforcement, Military and Civilians. Chris also leads training at his agency, providing opportunities for both himself and his deputies to train with the top instructors in the industry multiple times a year.   Chris also is an avid JiuJitisu practitioner and trains in combatives and weapons based grappling on a regular basis.   For more info on Chris, please follow him on Instagram @asymmetricoptions and also his website Asymmectric Options – Training, tactics, tradition. (asymmetricoptions.com) Will Competition get you killed on the streets?  By Massad Ayoob https://athlonoutdoors.com/article/is-competition-shooting-legit-for-self-defense/ US Military drone rifle rounds  https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/u-s-military-unveils-drone-killer-rifle-cartridges/?utm_source=newsletterMarine Officers take on skeet shooting training and shotgun deployment for anti UAV/UAS capabilitieshttps://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2025/april/train-scale-defeat-drones-shotguns Tenicor – www.tenicor.com they are educators, and innovators in the holster market.  They are firearms instructors themselves, pressure testing their gear in multiple force on force events every year.  We support those who do the work.

This episode is a throwback to 2022 - we have both the Great One Rob Leatham and Mike Seeklander on the show.  Rob is arguably the most winning action pistol competitor ever, he has 8 IPSC World Titles, 34 USPSA/IPSC National Titles, and multiple IDPA and Steel challenge national titles as well.  Mike Seeklander is the current IDPA World Champion, has multiple national titles both in IDPA, and USPSA and more.    We do a deep dive into higher level shooting concepts, mental prep, dry fire, and much more.  We also hit on Mike and Rob's joint venture The Bigger Circle -  Check out episodes 14 and 60 for previous discussions with Mike.   For more info on Rob and Mike check out their websites below.   https://robleatham.com/ https://www.shooting-performance.com/ Please subscribe and share our podcast with friends and family.  Visit our website for bios, future events and info at www.evosec.org  Like, follow and share us on Facebook and Instagram @evosecusa Tenicor – www.tenicor.com they are educators, and innovators in the holster market.  They are firearms instructors themselves, pressure testing their gear in multiple force on force events every year.  We support those who do the work.   Patronizing our sponsors helps us greatly so thank you in advance.   Evolution Security is Eric Davis, Aaron Davis and Brian Schilt; specializing in self-protection education, defensive pistol and carbine, consulting, and weapons based grappling.  Their mission is to help those serious about protecting themselves and their loved ones, become more capable though filtered information, recommended study, and highlighting their mentors who are the best in the field.   In addition, Eric and Aaron (twins) are musicians keeping with Musashi's adage that martial artist should focus on art outside of the martial (bumper music recorded by the brothers).

This show we have another Gear and Mindset episode to help enhance your self defense posture and possibly give some new gear recommendations. The Value and impact of The Active Response Training Blog. https://www.activeresponsetraining.net The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast Patronize one of our sponsors – Tenicor -  https://tenicor.com/ The Grayl filter system - https://grayl.com/products/24oz-geopress-ti-water-filter-purifier-covert-edition Political Rhetoric - There has Now been a third time that someone has tried to Assassinate President Trump -  rhetoric from the left that the American people are bombarded with daily for years has consequences.   15 Agriculture Drones Stolen in NJ. https://nj1015.com/new-jersey-drone-theft/ Decent drone for the price https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tsu-oSxHAn4 US answer to the Iran cheap Shahed Drone https://www.newsweek.com/us-copied-iran-famous-shahed-made-it-indispensable-11761521

This episode we have our great friend and mentor Cecil Burch on to talk about Entangled Fights. We also do an AAR of the NRA ARC Level 1 match that Eric shot recently. Support our one of our sponsors: Tenicor More about Cecil and IA Combatives Cecil Burch teaches people to take immediate action when the fight is on. He is the founder of Immediate Action Combatives, specializing in clinch fighting, grappling, and weapons access in close-range encounters. His approach centers on decisive action, positional control, and finishing the problem in front of you. Cecil is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with a proven competition record, including podium finishes at the Pan-Ams, American Nationals, and World Masters at the black belt level. His background spans decades of training in grappling and striking, along with extensive work in weapons-based environments. This experience shapes his ability to integrate clinch, ground, and weapons access into a single, functional system. He teaches nationally and internationally, working with law enforcement, military personnel, and civilians who want skills they can apply under pressure. His instruction scales from new students to experienced practitioners. His standard is clear: take immediate action, establish control, and win

This episode is a repeat of a very well received and highly downloaded show with Matt Pranka////////////// This show we have Matt Pranka of Xray Alpha on to talk Shooting, the Combatives Summit, CQB, training, dry fire and much more.  Matt is a USPSA Grand Master providing training to Military, Law Enforcement and Civilians. and is quickly becoming one of the most sought after instructors in the industry.  Matt has decades of special operations experience, yet he believes that being a high level competitor in practical shooting sports is one of the most important attributes of an operator and he hits on that in this interview.  Just recently Eric met Matt at the Combatives Summit in FL where he was continuing his education and providing his expertise to the event as well.   ⁠https://www.xrayalpha.com/

This show the Tactical Twins are back on the air! Join us in relaunching the podcast with a very jovial conversation about what has been going on in their lives recently. In addition Eric and Aaron talk about the new NRA ARC rifle competition. For more info check out the ARC website. https://arc.nra.org/ NRA ARC rule book