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On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave sit down with former Navy SEAL and DEVGRU operator Dr. Dan Luna for a conversation about combat, elite military training, trauma, resilience, addiction, and the psychological toll of spending nearly two decades in some of the most demanding environments in the military.Dan shares how growing up without a father led him to seek out strong male role models and eventually pursue one of the most difficult challenges he could find: becoming a Navy SEAL. He reflects on his early years at SEAL Team One, where he served alongside Eddie, and the culture of brotherhood, mentorship, and relentless training that shaped their careers. Together, they revisit their first encounters, deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, and the experiences that prepared them for the realities of combat.The conversation takes a deeper look inside BUD/S and Hell Week, where physical exhaustion, sleep deprivation, and psychological pressure push candidates beyond what they believe they can endure. Eddie and Dan share stories from their time as instructors, including the mind games used to test students, the consequences of quitting, and why they believe the standards of SEAL training must remain demanding.Dan also opens up about his experience pursuing a position at DEVGRU, including being cut from Green Team just days before graduation. Despite already being an experienced Navy SEAL, the rejection left him struggling with anger, shame, and self-doubt for nearly a year. He explains how that experience changed his understanding of failure and why he now approaches those who fall short of their goals differently.After years of combat deployments, Dan began experiencing the cumulative effects of injuries, burnout, family struggles, and the relentless pressure to perform. He reflects on the internal battles that can follow a career built around strength and toughness, including the difficulty of separating personal worth from professional achievement.The conversation then turns to Dan's work beyond the military and his research into trauma, suffering, and resilience. Drawing from his experiences as a Navy SEAL and his doctoral studies, he explores how childhood experiences, negative self-talk, and unresolved trauma can influence the way people approach success, relationships, and adversity throughout their lives.Eddie, Dave, and Dan also discuss the difference between pushing yourself to become stronger and allowing that same drive to become destructive. They reflect on the voices in their own heads, the pressure to constantly achieve more, and the challenge of learning to accept themselves after spending years in environments where being good enough was never enough.Together, they explore Navy SEAL training, DEVGRU selection, combat deployments, military leadership, childhood trauma, failure, addiction, mental health, personal identity, and the importance of finding purpose beyond a military career.This episode is a look at the psychological battles that can follow even the most accomplished warriors—and how Dan's experiences in combat, failure, and personal growth have shaped his understanding of what it truly means to be strong.Dan Luna:Website: https://www.google.com/search?q=suicide+prevention+month&rlz=1CDGOYI_enUS740US740&oq=suicide+&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqDQgFEAAYgwEYsQMYgAQyDwgAEEUYOxiDARixAxiABDIKCAEQLhixAxiABDIGCAIQRRg5Mg0IAxAAGIMBGLEDGIAEMgoIBBAAGLEDGIAEMg0IBRAAGIMBGLEDGIAEMg0IBhAuGIMBGLEDGIAEMhAIBxAAGIMBGLEDGIAEGIoFMgoICBAuGLEDGIAEMgcICRAAGI8C0gEINDg2MmowajeoAhmwAgHiAwQYASBf8QUoRWe8GKsJQPEFKEVnvBirCUA&hl=en-US&sourceid=chrome-mobile&source=chrome.ob&ie=UTF-8#lfId=ChxjMe Follow Shoot Me Straight:📸 Instagram: @shootmestraight🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple PodcastsSponsors:Elevated Silence - Use Code SMASH15https://elevatedsilence.com)Firecracker Farmhttps://firecracker.farmPatriot Poucheshttps://patriotpouchusa.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave sit down with Panama City Beach Police Chief J.R. Mendez and returning guest Bruce Bailey for a conversation about law enforcement, drugs, online predators, human trafficking, protecting children, and what it takes to clean up a city built around tourism. J.R. shares how a kid from San Antonio who never planned on becoming a cop ended up joining the Marine Corps, becoming a military police officer, and eventually finding his way to Panama City Beach. After starting on patrol, he spent nearly a decade working undercover narcotics, watching the drug landscape shift from cocaine and meth to Florida’s pill mill and opioid epidemic. Eventually, the revolving door of addiction left him questioning how much difference enforcement alone could actually make. That search for a greater impact led J.R. into Internet Crimes Against Children investigations. He opens up about going undercover online, investigating predators, and seeing firsthand how smartphones, social media, pornography, and new technology have completely changed the access predators have to children. After years of those investigations, J.R. created Parents Against Predators, a program designed to show parents exactly what their children may be exposed to online and how to recognize the warning signs. Bruce and J.R. also discuss human trafficking and the darker side of communities that depend heavily on tourism—including why problems like sexual exploitation and date-rape drugs can be difficult to openly address when businesses and local economies depend on maintaining a certain image. The conversation then turns to J.R.’s role as Police Chief and the approach he has taken to changing Panama City Beach. Rather than avoiding problems or trying to please everyone, J.R. says he built a culture where officers are expected to do their jobs for the right reasons, while being held accountable when they don’t. His message to visitors is simple: come to Panama City Beach, have a great time, and leave with good memories—but if you come to commit crimes, expect consequences. Together, Eddie, Dave, J.R., and Bruce discuss the Marine Corps, undercover police work, the opioid epidemic, online predators, human trafficking, parenting in the age of smartphones and AI, mental health, youth crime, law enforcement, leadership, accountability, and the realities communities face when protecting the public conflicts with protecting an image. This episode is a look inside the problems most people never see—and why J.R. believes confronting them directly is the only way to actually make a difference. Follow Shoot Me Straight:📸 Instagram: @shootmestraight🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts Sponsors: Elevated Silence - Use Code SMASH15https://elevatedsilence.com Firecracker Farmhttps://firecracker.farm Patriot Poucheshttps://patriotpouchusa.com 10.40.10 Fitnesshttps://www.104010fitness.com Battle Barshttps://battlebars.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave sit down with former NFL punter and Super Bowl champion Britton Colquitt to talk about life after football, faith, family, money, and what happens when the career you’ve built your identity around suddenly comes to an end. Britton looks back on the final years of his NFL career, including playing through the COVID era, navigating league pressure surrounding vaccination, and eventually being released by the Minnesota Vikings. He explains how difficult it became to get picked up by another team and how that forced him to confront something he knew was coming but never felt ready for: football was over. From there, the conversation turns to identity and transition. Britton talks about losing the structure, camaraderie, routine, and purpose that came with the NFL, while Eddie connects it to his own experience leaving the SEAL Teams. Britton explains how his faith and family gave him something solid to return to and why he now sees being a husband and father as a much bigger part of his purpose. The guys also break down the side of professional football fans rarely see, including guaranteed money, contracts, injuries, financial advisors, and how quickly young players can find themselves out of the league with very little to show for it. That leads into a larger conversation about NIL, college athletes making money at a young age, and whether the system is actually preparing them for what comes with it. Today, Britton has transitioned into real estate on Florida’s 30A. He talks about accepting that nothing will fully replace the feeling of playing in front of a stadium full of people, while finding a different kind of purpose through serving people, building relationships, and helping families find a place to call home. Together, Eddie, Dave, and Britton discuss the NFL, career transitions, identity, faith, fatherhood, marriage, money, NIL, life after professional sports, and learning that what you do doesn’t have to define who you are. Follow Shoot Me Straight:📸 Instagram: @shootmestraight🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts Sponsors: Elevated Silence - Use Code SMASH15https://elevatedsilence.com Firecracker Farmhttps://firecracker.farm Patriot Poucheshttps://patriotpouchusa.com 10.40.10 Fitnesshttps://www.104010fitness.com Battle Barshttps://battlebars.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave sit down with entrepreneur Philip Poundstone for a conversation about faith, success, ego, business, marriage, and what happens when the life you’ve built on the outside doesn’t match what’s happening within. Philip grew up believing he was doing everything right. He was a rule follower, valedictorian, regular churchgoer, and the kind of kid everyone viewed as a model Christian. But looking back, Philip says much of his identity had become tied to being “good” and receiving the approval that came with it. Eventually, even his faith became another measure of his own performance. That mindset followed him through college and ultimately across the world when, at 22 years old, Philip left the United States to spend a year as a Christian missionary. But while preparing to share the Gospel with two young men overseas, Philip experienced a realization that completely changed his understanding of his own faith: he had spent years believing his actions made him worthy rather than recognizing his own need for a Savior. Philip describes breaking down as he realized he had become his own savior—someone who proudly wore Christianity on the outside while believing his own goodness was enough. Less than an hour later, he sat down with the two men he had planned to minister to and shared the same Gospel that had just transformed his own understanding of faith. Both told him they wanted to believe and be saved that day. From there, Philip also shares his journey as an entrepreneur, including building and selling businesses and learning some painful lessons along the way. He opens up about a business sale that eventually fell apart after he remained financially tied to partners who didn’t share the same values. When payments stopped and attorneys became involved, Philip found himself negotiating to take the company back—only to turn around two weeks later and sell it to his biggest competitor. Today, Philip is building Pool Captains, a pool service company he says is intentionally faith-forward. He explains what it actually looks like to bring Christian values into business—not simply putting faith on a website, but admitting mistakes, asking customers and partners for grace, taking responsibility when things go wrong, and creating a culture where the people around you can hold you accountable. The conversation also gets personal as Philip, Eddie, and Dave talk about marriage, fatherhood, conflict, and the pressure men often feel to always have the answer. Philip discusses learning to approach his marriage from a position of humility rather than needing to be right, while the guys explore why admitting mistakes—to your spouse, your employees, and even your children—can be one of the hardest and most important parts of leadership. Together, Eddie, Dave, and Philip discuss Christianity versus performance, the danger of ego, salvation, entrepreneurship, business partnerships, money and success, vulnerability, marriage, parenting, leadership, accountability, and why strength doesn’t always look the way we think it does. Whether you’re building a business, raising a family, questioning your faith, or simply trying to become a better leader, this episode challenges the idea that having everything together is what makes you strong—and asks what might change if you were willing to admit that you don’t. Follow Shoot Me Straight:📸 Instagram: @shootmestraight🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts Sponsors: Elevated Silence - Use Code SMASH15https://elevatedsilence.com Firecracker Farmhttps://firecracker.farm Patriot Poucheshttps://patriotpouchusa.com 10.40.10 Fitnesshttps://www.104010fitness.com Battle Barshttps://battlebars.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave sit down with retired ATF attorney Harry Foster and Elevated Silence founder Jim Hood to break down the National Firearms Act, the changing landscape of Second Amendment law, and what recent court decisions could mean for suppressors and gun owners across the country.After nearly 29 years with the federal government—including 23 years with ATF—Harry shares stories from a career that began in law enforcement and eventually took him to the U.S. Senate, where he worked security for Senator Max Cleland, flew on Air Force One, spent time inside the White House, and worked alongside members of the Secret Service. He later became an attorney with ATF, eventually overseeing legal operations for the agency’s Atlanta Field Division and working on major federal firearms cases.Harry also takes Eddie and Dave behind the scenes of ATF, explaining what the agency actually does, where he believes it gets unfairly criticized, and where government enforcement has gone too far. He reflects on cases that stayed with him throughout his career, including his involvement following the capture of Olympic Park bomber Eric Rudolph and a brutal triple homicide at a Georgia gun store that ATF agents helped solve in just seven days.The conversation then turns to the history of the National Firearms Act and the current legal battle surrounding it. Harry breaks down how the NFA began as a tax and registration system in 1934, the Supreme Court cases that shaped it, and why eliminating the $200 tax on suppressors, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and other NFA items has opened the door to a much larger constitutional question: If there is no longer a tax to collect, can the federal government still require registration? Jim brings the perspective of both a suppressor manufacturer and Second Amendment advocate as the group discusses the lawsuits challenging NFA registration, what current injunctions actually mean for gun owners, why the rules vary depending on where you live and which organizations you're a member of, and why the safest legal path isn't always as simple as social media makes it sound. Together, Eddie, Dave, Harry, and Jim also discuss suppressor misconceptions, firearm registration, interstate travel with firearms, shifting enforcement priorities between presidential administrations, government overreach, legal precedent, and the possibility that one of these cases could ultimately reach the Supreme Court. Whether you're a gun owner, Second Amendment advocate, firearms industry professional, or simply trying to understand what is actually happening with the NFA, this episode breaks down an incredibly complicated legal fight in a way that makes sense. Harry Foster: Website: www.atf-law.com Jim Hood:Website: https://elevatedsilence.com Follow Shoot Me Straight: 📸 Instagram: @shootmestraight 🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple PodcastsSponsors: Elevated Silence- Use Code SMASH15 https://elevatedsilence.com Firecracker Farm https://firecracker.farm Patriot Pouches https://patriotpouchusa.com 10.40.10 Fitness https://www.104010fitness.com Battle Bars https://battlebars.com

On this special tribute episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave revisit their conversation with decorated Navy SEAL Dan Cerrillo, honoring his life, service, and legacy following his passing.Dan entered SEAL Team 1 just before September 11, 2001, and soon found himself serving multiple combat tours throughout Afghanistan and Iraq. During his time in the Navy, Dan faced some of the most difficult realities of war, sustained numerous injuries, and was awarded a Bronze Star, Navy Commendation and Navy Achievement Medals, and a Purple Heart for his service.The conversation explores one of the most challenging chapters of Dan’s military career, when he found himself facing murder charges related to the death of a captured terrorist. Dan shares what it was like to fight for his innocence and how the experience ultimately contributed to his decision to walk away from the Navy.After leaving the military, Dan faced an entirely different kind of battle. Financial hardship, his wife’s cancer diagnosis, addiction, and a series of choices he deeply regretted pushed him into one of the darkest periods of his life. Dan speaks openly about those struggles and the intensive therapy that ultimately became a turning point, helping him rebuild his life and find a new sense of purpose.Dan went on to become CEO of Spartan 7, specializing in private security, as well as Chief of Staff for American Addiction Centers. His experiences fueled a passion for helping veterans and first responders struggling with addiction and encouraging others to seek the help they need.We originally released this conversation with Dan years ago, but following his passing, we wanted to share it again as a tribute to the man he was and the impact he made. Dan’s willingness to speak openly about his victories, failures, struggles, and recovery made this an unforgettable conversation.This repeat episode is shared in honor of Dan Cerrillo—his service, resilience, humor, honesty, and commitment to helping others. We’re grateful we had the opportunity to sit down with him and share his story.Follow Shoot Me Straight:📸 Instagram: @shootmestraight🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple PodcastsSponsors:Elevated Silence- Use Code SMASH15 https://elevatedsilence.comFirecracker Farm https://firecracker.farmPatriot Pouches https://patriotpouchusa.com](https://patriotpouchusa.com)10.40.10 Fitness https://www.104010fitness.comBattle Bars https://battlebars.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave sit down with retired Seattle firefighter David “Davy” Dahlin and his wife, Becky, to discuss more than two decades in the fire service, standing by their convictions during the COVID-19 vaccine mandates, and the fight that followed. After nearly 22 years with the Seattle Fire Department, Davy found himself facing a decision that would ultimately end the career he had dreamed about since childhood. He shares his experience requesting a religious exemption from the city’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate, having that exemption approved, and later being terminated after the city determined it could not accommodate him. Davy walks Eddie and Dave through the events surrounding his departure and why he and other former Seattle firefighters continue to challenge the city's actions through ongoing litigation. The conversation also explores Davy’s career as a firefighter and first responder, from responding to medical emergencies and fires to the realities of working inside a demanding public safety organization. Together, Eddie, Dave, and Davy compare the fire service and military, discussing leadership, institutional politics, promotions, and what happens when those making decisions become disconnected from the people actually doing the job. Later in the episode, Davy and Becky discuss the personal consequences of taking a stand. What began with nearly 70 Seattle Fire Department members refusing the mandate eventually led a group of them into a years-long legal battle. Davy explains the frustration of fighting an institution with far greater resources and why the process has tested the finances, families, and resolve of those involved. That fight ultimately helped inspire Seattle Fired, a nonprofit created to support those navigating the financial and personal burden surrounding the legal battle. Davy describes the fight as a “David versus Goliath” situation and explains why he and the others involved remain committed even years later. This episode is a conversation about service, faith, leadership, personal conviction, and what it can cost to stand behind what you believe—even when doing so means walking away from a career that defined much of your life. Davy & Becky Dahlin / Seattle Fired: Facebook: Seattle Fired Website: www.seattlefired.com Follow Shoot Me Straight: 📸 Instagram: @shootmestraight🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts Sponsors: Elevated Silence- Use Code SMASH15https://elevatedsilence.com Firecracker Farmhttps://firecracker.farm Patriot Poucheshttps://patriotpouchusa.com 10.40.10 Fitnesshttps://www.104010fitness.com Battle Barshttps://battlebars.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave sit down with retired U.S. Secret Service agent John Constantine to discuss leadership, protecting presidents, and the realities of serving in one of the nation's most demanding security organizations. After spending nearly 23 years in the Secret Service—including years on the elite Counter Assault Team protecting Presidents Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden—John shares the lessons that inspired his new book, Hallways and Stairwells. Drawing from decades of experience, he explains why true leadership begins with character, humility, and accountability rather than rank or authority. Together, Eddie, Dave, and John explore how great leaders earn trust, why bad leaders often teach the most valuable lessons, and how ego can quietly destroy even the strongest teams.The conversation also takes listeners behind the scenes of presidential protection, offering a rare look at what it's like to safeguard world leaders under constant pressure. John explains the importance of communication, adaptability, and innovation in high-risk environments, while sharing stories about working with multiple presidential administrations, protecting dignitaries around the world, and balancing mission success with taking care of the people under your leadership.Later in the episode, the discussion turns to some of the most scrutinized moments in recent Secret Service history, including the July 13 assassination attempt against President Trump. John offers his perspective on what the public often misunderstands about the Secret Service, the dangers of complacency, the role of leadership during crisis, and why transparent accountability—not conspiracy theories—is essential to improving security and protecting future presidents.Whether you're a leader, first responder, military veteran, law enforcement professional, or someone looking to build stronger teams, this episode is an insightful conversation about service, responsibility, leadership, and the mindset required to protect others when failure isn't an option.John Constantine:Instagram: @john.constantineONEZERO Facebook: John Constantine YouTube:  ⁨@JohnConstantineUNCLASS⁩  📖 Hallways and Stairwells https://link.amazon/B0grcXN6oFollow Shoot Me Straight:📸 Instagram: @shootmestraight🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple PodcastsSponsors: Elevated Silence- Use Code SMASH15 https://elevatedsilence.com Firecracker Farm https://firecracker.farm Patriot Pouches https://patriotpouchusa.com 10.40.10 Fitness https://www.104010fitness.com Battle Bars https://battlebars.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave switch things up with a Q&A episode, answering questions directly from listeners and diving into everything from life in the SEAL Teams and military leadership to faith, character, combat experience, and the lessons that come from failure. Eddie reflects on his relationship with his younger brother, how their personalities differ, and how growing up in a strict household helped shape his natural resistance to authority. The conversation then turns to former guests and fellow veterans, including Kevin "Kav" Holland and Jimmy Watson, as Eddie and Dave discuss what they learned from their stories, the mistakes and setbacks that shaped them, and why finding peace and purpose after leaving the military can matter more than traditional measures of success. The discussion also dives into Eddie's experience in military detention, the realities of transitioning out of the Teams, and the importance of veterans using their experiences to help those coming behind them. Eddie shares why he believes one of the greatest things former operators can do is turn around after their own struggles and pass those lessons on to others. Later in the episode, Eddie and Dave tackle questions surrounding military leadership and the responsibility of those who make decisions about war. They discuss whether leaders sending Americans into combat should have military experience themselves, why firsthand experience can change the weight of those decisions, and the importance of surrounding leaders with people who understand the realities of war. They also discuss Pete Hegseth, military standards, and why service alone should never automatically be viewed as proof of someone's character. Whether you're a veteran, active-duty service member, longtime listener, or simply interested in leadership, military culture, faith, and personal growth, this Q&A episode is an open conversation about learning from experience, judging people by their character, and using the lessons you've earned to help others. Follow Shoot Me Straight: 📸 Instagram: @shootmestraight 🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts Sponsors: Elevated Silence- Use Code SMASH15https://elevatedsilence.com  Firecracker Farmhttps://firecracker.farm  Patriot Poucheshttps://patriotpouchusa.com   10.40.10 Fitnesshttps://www.104010fitness.com  Battle Barshttps://battlebars.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave sit down once again with Terry Wilson for an honest conversation about social media, authenticity, leadership, and the challenges of navigating a world driven by clicks, outrage, and self-promotion. After years serving in elite military units where humility, competence, and teamwork were expected—not advertised—Terry shares why transitioning into the civilian world has forced him to wrestle with the uncomfortable reality of promoting himself while staying true to the values that shaped him. Alongside Eddie and Dave, the conversation explores how social media algorithms reward controversy over truth, why negativity spreads faster than encouragement, and how independent creators can fall into the very same traps they once criticized. The discussion also dives into the growing culture of online "experts," the difference between real experience and manufactured credibility, and why integrity matters more than ever in an age where anyone can build a following. Drawing from decades of military leadership, Terry explains why true leadership is earned through performance, character, and service—not popularity or personal branding. Later in the episode, the three discuss the importance of protecting the integrity of the veteran community, the responsibility that comes with telling combat stories, and why falsely claiming the experiences of others is one of the greatest betrayals of military honor. They also address the recent controversy surrounding Tim Kennedy and what accountability, forgiveness, and genuine remorse should look like within the special operations community. Whether you're a veteran, business owner, content creator, or simply trying to navigate today's media landscape, this episode is a candid conversation about truth, credibility, leadership, and remaining authentic in a culture that often rewards the opposite.Terry Wilson:📸 Instagram: @terry.m.wilson.jrFollow Shoot Me Straight:📸 Instagram: @shootmestraight🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple PodcastsSponsors: Elevated Silence- Use Code SMASH15https://elevatedsilence.com Firecracker Farm https://firecracker.farm Patriot Pouches https://patriotpouchusa.com10.40.10 Fitness https://www.104010fitness.com Battle Bars https://battlebars.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie and Dave sit down with Helmut and Svenja, founders of EMS Health & Fitness, for a conversation about cutting-edge fitness technology, injury recovery, longevity, and why one 20-minute workout has transformed the way thousands of people train across Europe. Originally from Germany, Helmut and Svenja never expected to build their business in the United States. After relocating to Florida, they introduced Americans to Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS)—a training system that uses electrical impulses to activate over 90% of the body's muscles simultaneously while requiring just one 20-minute session each week. Like many new technologies, EMS has been met with skepticism. But after personally experiencing the workout, Eddie and Dave quickly discovered why professional athletes, rehabilitation specialists, and busy professionals have embraced the system for years. Eddie and Dave dive deep into the science behind EMS, discussing how the technology increases muscle activation, improves strength, accelerates recovery, boosts metabolism, and minimizes joint stress compared to traditional resistance training. Helmut and Svenja explain why EMS has become a staple throughout Europe, how it supports everyone from elite athletes to people recovering from injuries, and why results often become noticeable within just a few sessions. The conversation also explores the importance of longevity. Eddie shares how years of military service affected his body, the challenges of recovering from injuries, managing hormone health, and why investing in long-term wellness has become one of his highest priorities. Together, they discuss how training smarter—not simply harder—can help people stay healthier, stronger, and more capable for years to come. But this episode isn't only about fitness. It's about maximizing your health, embracing innovation, investing in your future, and understanding that taking care of your body today directly impacts the quality of your life tomorrow. Whether you're an athlete, recovering from an injury, looking to improve your overall health, or simply searching for a more efficient way to train, this conversation offers an inside look at one of the fastest-growing fitness technologies in the world. Helmut & Svenja Dimmel Instagram: emshealthfitness Facebook: EMS Health & Fitness Florida YouTube: EmsHealthFitnessFlorida Website: Ems-30a.com Follow Shoot Me Straight: Instagram: @shootmestraight Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts Sponsors: Elevated Silence- Use Code SMASH15 https://elevatedsilence.com Firecracker Farm https://firecracker.farm Patriot Pouches https://patriotpouchusa.com 10.40.10 Fitness https://www.104010fitness.com Battle Bars https://battlebars.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Dave sits down with longtime campus minister Anthony Saladino and Joshua Alexander for a powerful conversation about discipleship, healing, spiritual gifts, identity, and what it truly means to follow Jesus. For more than 27 years, Anthony has dedicated his life to reaching college students, helping thousands of young adults encounter Christ while navigating one of the most influential seasons of their lives. But before leading others to faith, Anthony found himself searching for it. Although he grew up attending church, Anthony admits he never truly knew Jesus. As a college athlete, he quickly fell into drinking, drugs, and sexual immorality, despite being one of the most disciplined people on his team. Realizing he couldn't change himself, he began praying one simple prayer: "God, if You're real, change my life." That prayer led him across the country to the University of Montana, where one unexpected invitation to church became the turning point that changed everything. In a single encounter with God, years of addiction were broken, his purpose became clear, and he began the journey that would eventually lead him into a lifetime of ministry. Anthony also shares the remarkable story of surviving thyroid cancer, only to later be told the cancer had returned. After friends gathered to pray, doctors discovered the tumors had completely disappeared, leaving them unable to explain what had happened. Throughout the conversation, Dave and Anthony explore some of the most debated topics within Christianity today, including miracles, healing, deliverance, spiritual warfare, prophecy, speaking in tongues, and why so many believers are hesitant to embrace the supernatural. Anthony explains why authentic discipleship isn't built on extraordinary experiences alone, but on faithfully walking with Jesus, inviting others into your life, and learning to recognize God's voice in everyday moments. The discussion also tackles the growing divide between church culture and biblical discipleship, why many Christians feel spiritually stagnant, and how pursuing comfort can often keep believers from experiencing the adventure God has for them. Whether you've walked with Christ for decades or you're simply asking whether God is real, this episode is an honest conversation about surrender, obedience, and discovering that following Jesus was never meant to be safe—it was meant to transform your life. Follow Anthony Saladino: Facebook: Anthony Saladino Follow Shoot Me Straight: Instagram: @shootmestraight Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Sponsors: Elevated Silence- Use Code SMASH15https://elevatedsilence.comFirecracker Farmhttps://firecracker.farmPatriot Poucheshttps://patriotpouchusa.com10.40.10 Fitnesshttps://www.104010fitness.comBattle Barshttps://battlebars.com

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie and Dave sit down with former Delta Force operator, entrepreneur, and host of the Tier One Podcast, Brent Tucker, for a conversation about service, leadership, integrity, and what separates those who chase excellence from those who settle for average. Long before serving nearly twenty years in the U.S. Army, Brent was simply a young man from a small Florida town with no plans of a military career. That changed on September 11, 2001. Like so many Americans, the attacks reshaped the course of his life. Determined to serve his country, Brent enlisted with the intention of doing his part before returning home to the family business. But once he entered the military, he realized ordinary service wouldn't satisfy the calling he felt. That pursuit eventually led him through Special Forces selection and into one of the military's most elite units, where he would spend the next decade serving at the highest level of special operations. Eddie and Dave dive deep into what it actually takes to reach that level. From the obsession required to make it through selection, to the sacrifices that come with pursuing excellence, Brent explains why there is no substitute for preparation, discipline, and complete commitment. They discuss why having no "Plan B" shaped his mindset, how culture inside elite military units determines success or failure, and why greatness demands far more than talent alone. The conversation also explores one of the most important topics facing today's veteran community: integrity. Brent shares why he chose to publicly expose fabricated military stories, why accountability matters more than popularity, and how allowing deception to go unchecked ultimately harms every veteran who served honorably. Rather than chasing controversy, he explains why preserving trust within the military community is worth the criticism that often comes with telling uncomfortable truths. But this episode isn't only about Special Operations. It's about personal responsibility, building character, refusing to compromise your values, and understanding that the standards you uphold when no one is watching ultimately define the person you become. Whether you're leading a family, building a business, serving your community, or simply trying to become a better version of yourself, this conversation offers a powerful reminder that excellence isn't an achievement—it's a daily decision. Follow Brent Tucker: Instagram: Tier1PodcastYouTube: Tier1 PodcastWebsite: tier1podcast.com Follow Shoot Me Straight: Instagram: @shootmestraight Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts Sponsors: Elevated Silence – Use code SMASH15 Firecracker Farm

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie and Dave sit down for a candid conversation about family, aging parents, responsibility, faith, modern culture, and the difficult realities that come with growing older.What begins as a discussion about recent travels, firearms training, and life on the road quickly turns into one of the most personal conversations Eddie has shared on the podcast.After spending years watching his father's health decline from Parkinson's disease, aphasia, and other complications, Eddie opens up about the heartbreaking decision to place his father in a VA care facility. He shares the emotional weight of making a choice he knows is necessary while still feeling like he's somehow letting down the man who spent his entire life taking care of his family.Eddie and Dave discuss the difficult transition that comes when children become caregivers for their parents. They talk about guilt, responsibility, and the reality that sometimes doing the right thing doesn't make the decision feel any easier. Eddie reflects on watching his father struggle with losing independence, while Dave shares his own experiences helping care for aging parents and navigating similar challenges.The conversation also explores family legacy, parenthood, and the lessons that only become clear later in life. Both men discuss the importance of having meaningful conversations with your parents while you still can, learning their stories, understanding their sacrifices, and appreciating the people who helped shape who you are today.Along the way, Eddie shares stories from recent firearms training events across the country and offers his unfiltered thoughts on leadership, accountability, and the culture surrounding parts of the firearms industry. The two also dive into hunting, firearms, UFC, social media, politics, modern media, and why so much of today's culture seems driven by outrage, distraction, and the pursuit of attention.Throughout the episode, Eddie and Dave examine what truly matters when life gets difficult. They discuss why serving others is one of the most important responsibilities we have, how faith provides strength during painful seasons, and why family remains more valuable than money, status, or success.This episode is about far more than aging parents or life's hardships.It's about duty, gratitude, family, faith, responsibility, and learning to cherish the people you love before time takes away the opportunity.Follow Shoot Me Straight:Instagram: @shootmestraightAvailable on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple PodcastsSponsors:Elevated Silence – Use code SMASH15Firecracker Farm

On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie sits down with former U.S. Army Green Beret Captain and congressional candidate John Frankman for a powerful conversation about faith, military service, leadership, government overreach, and the personal cost of standing by your convictions. Before becoming a Green Beret, John was preparing for a very different future. Raised with a deep belief in God, John eventually converted to Catholicism as a teenager and felt called to the priesthood. He spent years studying in seminary, preparing for a life of ministry before ultimately realizing God had a different path in mind. That path led him into the Army, where he would go on to serve as an infantry officer, attend Ranger School, earn his Green Beret, and lead soldiers in some of the military's most elite units. Eddie and John dive into military leadership, the realities of Special Forces culture, and the lessons learned through failure, adversity, and responsibility. From Ranger School and Special Forces Selection to leading Green Berets, John shares what it takes to earn trust, develop resilience, and lead men in high-pressure environments where excuses don't matter and results do. But John's story takes a dramatic turn during the COVID era. As vaccine mandates swept through the military, John found himself facing a decision that would alter the course of his career. Believing the mandate violated both his religious convictions and personal conscience, he refused to comply despite mounting pressure from military leadership. He shares what it was like watching careers threatened, service members punished, and military readiness take a back seat to politics during one of the most controversial periods in modern American history. The conversation explores much more than the pandemic. John discusses faith, morality, government authority, and why he believes courage begins with a willingness to stand alone when necessary. He explains how his experiences in Special Forces shaped his understanding of leadership and why those same lessons ultimately inspired him to run for Congress. Throughout the episode, Eddie and John examine what happens when institutions lose sight of their purpose, why conviction matters more than popularity, and how faith can provide clarity when everything around you is demanding compromise. This episode is about far more than military service or politics.It's about courage, conviction, purpose, and the willingness to sacrifice comfort, status, and even a career in order to remain faithful to what you believe is right. Follow John Frankman: Instagram: @johnfrankmanfl Facebook: JohnFrankmanFL Website: FrankmanforFlorida.com Follow Shoot Me Straight: Instagram: @shootmestraightAvailable on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts Sponsors: Elevated Silence – Use code SMASH15 Firecracker Farm