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Show Notes Episode 209. Old Glory Bank: Fighting Debanking and Building Financial Freedom What happens when banks, payment processors, and financial institutions begin deciding which lawful businesses and customers are acceptable? Recorded at the NRA Annual Meetings in Houston, Alex Ooley sits down with Eric Ohlhausen, co-founder of Old Glory Bank, to discuss debanking, financial privacy, and the importance of preserving access to the financial system for lawful individuals and businesses. Eric explains that Old Glory Bank was created in response to growing concerns about cancel culture, political discrimination, and financial institutions refusing service to customers connected with firearms, conservative causes, law enforcement, and other lawful but controversial industries. The conversation also explores how Old Glory Bank combines traditional FDIC-insured banking with digital-first technology, nationwide service, merchant-payment options, and planned integrations involving cryptocurrency, stablecoins, and blockchain-based banking. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Old Glory Bank’s mission to protect liberty and support the Second Amendment 02:26 - The social and political backdrop leading to the creation of Old Glory Bank 03:39 - The founders and prominent patriots supporting Old Glory Bank, including Ben Carson and Sean Spicer 05:23 - Why banking is essential for exercising rights like free speech and firearm ownership 06:20 - The risks of deplatforming and de-banking, with real stories of account closures 08:12 - How Old Glory Bank is a regulated, FDIC-insured alternative with national reach 09:57 - Rapid growth of accounts and technological innovation in digital banking 11:09 - The friction and challenges of moving banking relationships and how Old Glory Bank simplifies switching 12:24 - Handling cash deposits through Old Glory Cash In locations 13:54 - The bank’s support for non-traditional transactions and cash-first customers 15:07 - Protecting privacy from big banks’ data sharing and invasive tracking 16:30 - The bank’s stance on privacy, second amendment rights, and the fight against government overreach 17:17 - The Old Glory Protect program offering death benefits to military and first responders 18:33 - The upcoming integration of crypto, stablecoins, and blockchain banking in next-gen technology 19:17 - The full potential of stablecoins as digital cash, lawfully backed and privacy-preserving 21:10 - Customer service, ease of account opening, and the competitive edge of Old Glory Bank’s technology 23:02 - Facilitating merchant services and the rollout of Old Glory Pay for censorship-resistant transactions 25:10 - Special NRA partnership offering fee discounts to members and upcoming plans to go public 26:33 - Final thoughts on supporting financial liberty and the importance of principled banking Old Glory Bank:https://oldglorybank.com Old Glory Bank Next Generation Banking Demo Video Old Glory Cash In Locations Old Glory Protect Program NRA Business Alliance Until next time, remember: You are the Forge of Freedom. This episode is provided for general informational purposes. References to banking products, cryptocurrency, stablecoins, securities, or other financial services should not be understood as financial or investment advice. Product availability, benefits, fees, eligibility requirements, and regulatory status may change. Review the applicable terms and conduct your own due diligence. DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 208. Doctors for Responsible Gun Ownership: Dr. John Edeen on Medical Bias, Suppressors, and Defending the 2A In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, recorded live at the NRA Annual Meeting in Houston, Alex Ooley sits down with Dr. John Edeen — a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Navy veteran, firearms instructor, and Membership Director of Doctors for Responsible Gun Ownership (DRGO). Dr. Edeen shares his journey from the Navy and medical missions to becoming a leading voice countering anti-gun bias in the medical community. The conversation covers DRGO’s mission to combat flawed research, the science of suppressors and hearing protection, how to handle gun-related questions from doctors, the flaws in treating “gun violence” as a public health issue, and the critical importance of defensive gun uses. Guest Bio: Dr. John Edeen is a pediatric orthopedic surgeon based in San Antonio, Texas. A Columbia University-trained physician and Navy veteran (including service on the USS Peleliu and a deployment to Somalia), he is also a Range Master, NRA, and Massad Ayoob Group firearms instructor. He serves as Membership Director for Doctors for Responsible Gun Ownership (DRGO), part of the Second Amendment Foundation, where he advocates for evidence-based policy and fights medical community bias against the Second Amendment. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and welcome at the NRA Annual Meeting 00:58 – Recording from Voices of the Second Amendment media row 01:25 – Dr. Edeen’s background: Columbia, Navy service, pediatric orthopedics, international medical missions 03:21 – How Dr. Edeen got into firearms and the Second Amendment 04:28 – Meeting Mark Walters, Massad Ayoob, and entering gun rights advocacy 06:50 – Joining Doctors for Responsible Gun Ownership (DRGO) and its origins with Tim Wheeler 10:07 – DRGO’s mission: Countering bias in medical literature 11:33 – Website resources (drgo.us), articles, and advocacy 12:37 – Suppressors, hearing protection science, and the ENT position paper 16:20 – Deep dive into ear anatomy, cochlea, hair cells, and noise-induced damage (with visuals) 19:23 – Decibel science and why suppressors + ear pro matter 22:11 – What to do when your doctor asks about gun ownership 28:42 – Strategies for patients: Questions to ask, boundary violations, and medical board complaints 32:45 – Addressing child safety, rapid-access safes, and defensive utility of firearms 34:47 – Public health vs. individual rights, “gun violence” myths, and defensive gun uses (2.4 million estimate) 37:10 – How to join DRGO, benefits, and 2ADoc.com 42:20 – Hospital active shooter risks, gun-free zones, and closing thoughts Key Resources & Links Doctors for Responsible Gun Ownership Website: drgo.us  Find a 2A-Friendly Doctor 2ADoc.com Suppressor / Hearing Protection Paper (mentioned 2017 ENT/neuro-otologist paper) – Available in DRGO archives https://drgo.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/DRGO-HPA-White-Paper-03-27-17.pdf Join DRGO – $35 membership (open to doctors, nurses, EMTs, lawyers, and general supporters) https://drgo.us/join-drgo/ Forge of Freedom Links YouTube | Rumble | Facebook | X | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | All major platforms Website: forgeoffreedom.com Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share to help spread the message of freedom. Leave a review on your favorite platform — it really helps! Stay vigilant, train hard, and remember: You are the Forge of Freedom. DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 207. Inside the NRA with John Richardson:  Reform, Transparency, and the Future of the NRA In Episode 207 of The Forge of Freedom, Alex Ooley is joined by John Richardson, NRA Board of Directors member and author of the No Lawyers, Only Guns and Money blog, for an inside look at the current state of the NRA, the reform movement, and what has changed since Richardson joined the board. John discusses his first year on the NRA Board, why he ran, how he was elected by both petition and nomination, and why member-driven reform matters. The conversation covers NRA 2.0, transparency, fiduciary duties, board governance, the impact of the New York litigation, the role of the audit committee, budget discipline, membership challenges, and the future of the organization. John also shares updates from the NRA Annual Meeting in Houston, including member involvement, proposed bylaw changes, conflict-of-interest reforms, and efforts to bring younger voices and broader expertise into NRA leadership. 00:00 Introduction to the NRA Board Experience 02:57 Running for the NRA Board: A Personal Journey 06:03 The Importance of Transparency in the NRA 08:58 Understanding the Role of an NRA Board Member 12:07 The Dynamics of Board Collaboration 14:52 Reflections on the Reform Movement 17:43 Impact of New Leadership on the NRA 20:59 Lingering Effects of Litigation and Governance Changes 24:01 Recent Developments at the NRA Annual Meeting 26:28 Significant Resolutions and Conflict of Interest 29:40 Committee Enhancements and Member Involvement 32:35 Board Meeting Expectations and Bylaw Changes 35:37 NRA's Financial Health and Future Outlook 38:23 Collaborative Legal Efforts and Membership Engagement 41:13 Conclusion and Future Aspirations No Lawyers, Only Guns and Money — John Richardson’s blog covering Second Amendment issues, NRA governance, and internal NRA reform efforts. https://onlygunsandmoney.com/ NRA Member Portal — NRA members can log in to access governance materials, including bylaws, Form 990s, board minutes, and compliance information. https://www.nramemberservices.org/ NRA Annual Compliance Report — Discussed in the episode as a useful resource for members interested in transparency, spending controls, travel policies, and internal governance. https://onlygunsandmoney.com/?p=36152 NRA App — Mentioned by John as a resource for members to access NRA publications, member benefits, discounts, and other membership-related information. https://www.nrapublications.org/nra-mobile-app/ Second Amendment Foundation, NSSF, Gun Owners of America, Firearms Policy Coalition, and American Suppressor Association — Organizations discussed in connection with collaborative Second Amendment litigation and legislative efforts. https://www.nssf.org/ https://saf.org/ https://www.firearmspolicy.org/ https://www.gunowners.org/ https://americansuppressorassociation.com/ NRA, NRA 2.0, John Richardson, Forge of Freedom, Alex Ooley, Second Amendment, gun rights, NRA Board, NRA reform, Only Guns and Money, NRA Annual Meeting, firearms, gun politics, nonprofit governance, NRA transparency, NRA lawsuit, New York Attorney General, Second Amendment litigation, NRA membership DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast. ChaptersResourcesKeywords

Show Notes Episode 206. Second Amendment vs. Federal Drug User Gun Ban: Stephen Halbrook Breaks It Down Constitutional scholar and Second Amendment expert, Stephen Halbrook, joins Alex Ooley for an in-depth discussion on a major pending Supreme Court case involving the federal ban on firearm possession by unlawful users of controlled substances—particularly marijuana users. They break down the United States v. Hemani case, historical analogues under Bruen, as-applied vs. facial challenges, and what this means for gun rights moving forward. The conversation also covers other key Second Amendment issues percolating in the courts, including public carry restrictions and “assault weapon”/magazine bans. Guest  Stephen Halbrook – Renowned Second Amendment attorney, historian, and author.  Key Topics & Timestamps 00:21 – Introduction and welcome back 01:26 – Overview of the federal statute (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3)) prohibiting “unlawful users” of controlled substances from possessing firearms 04:03 – Details of the US v. Hemani case: marijuana user, as-applied challenge, government’s attempt to muddy the waters 05:23 – New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen framework: text, history, and tradition test 06:53 – Government’s historical analogues (intoxication, dangerousness) and why they may fall short 07:01 – “Is an unlawful user” – present tense vs. past use; vagueness concerns 08:34 – Comparison to United States v. Rahimi (domestic violence restraining orders) 11:07 – Facial vs. as-applied challenges explained with Rahimi example 12:58 – Limits of historical analogues for marijuana users 15:46 – Potential outcomes and lingering problems with the statute 16:05 – Did Rahimi weaken Bruen? Halbrook’s analysis of surety laws and “going armed” analogues 17:26 – Upcoming public carry case from Hawaii 19:16 – “Assault weapon” bans and standard-capacity magazine restrictions – outlook for Supreme Court review 21:02 – Justice Kavanaugh’s prior views on DC “assault weapon” ban 22:59 – Status of major circuit cases and need for more percolation 23:25 – 922(g) challenges overall (felons, illegal aliens, etc.) – mostly as-applied 25:21 – Closing remarks and museum mention Main Takeaways The Hemani case tests whether regular marijuana users can be categorically disarmed under the Second Amendment post-Bruen. The government bears the burden of proving historical analogues; simple intoxication laws may not suffice for non-intoxicated, regular users. Even a win for the defendant would likely be narrow (as-applied) rather than striking down the entire prohibition. Featured Resources Stephen Halbrook’s books and scholarship on Second Amendment history   https://stephenhalbrook.com/ Reason Magazine https://reason.com/volokh/2026/03/02/second-amendment-roundup-oral-argument-in-hemani/ https://reason.com/volokh/2026/02/01/second-amendment-roundup-5th-circuit-holds-disarming-for-meth-conviction-violates-2nd-amendment/ Supreme Court re Hemani, Bruen, and Rahimi https://www.scotusblog.com/cases/new-york-state-rifle-pistol-association-inc-v-bruen/ https://www.scotusblog.com/cases/united-states-v-rahimi/ https://www.scotusblog.com/cases/united-states-v-hemani/ Stephen Halbrook on the Forge of Freedom https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-188-the-legal-battle-for-the-second-amendment-with-stephen-halbrook/ https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-46-americas-rifle-the-case-for-the-ar-15-by-stephen-p-halbrook/ DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 205. The Guardian Conference: Forging the Prepared Citizen In this episode of Forge of Freedom, Alex sits down with Jacob Paulsen — founder of ConcealedCarry.com, creator of Mountain Man Medical, and host of the Guardian Conference. The conversation explores Jacob’s mission-driven approach to self-defense, the evolution of his companies, and how the Guardian Conference represents a unique “buffet-style” training experience designed to expose attendees to a wide range of instructors, disciplines, and skill levels. More than just gear or shooting proficiency, this episode dives into the broader philosophy of responsible armed defense — training, mindset, medical preparedness, and community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Concealed Carry and Self-Defense 04:01 The Guardian Conference: A New Approach to Training 08:18 Meeting Diverse Needs: Inclusivity in Training 12:51 Expert Instructors: Quality and Safety in Training 16:06 Conference Logistics: What to Expect 20:03 The Value of Community and Shared Learning 24:48 Conclusion: Building a Training Lifestyle Resources & Links Guardian Conference: https://guardianconference.com ConcealedCarry.com: https://www.concealedcarry.com Mountain Man Medical: https://www.mountainmanmedical.com Jacob Paulsen (Previous Appearance): Lessons from 1,600 Armed Traffic Stops:  https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-182-what-over-1600-armed-traffic-stops-reveal-about-law-enforcement-interactions-with-jacob-paulsen/ DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 204. Project Appleseed:  Rediscovering Our Heritage In this final edition from the NRA Annual Meeting in Houston, Texas, host Alex Ooley sits down with Tom Kehoe, Chairman of the Board for Project Appleseed. They discuss how Project Appleseed bridges the gap between traditional marksmanship and American civic history, focusing on the events of April 19, 1775. Tom shares the organization's history—from its origins with "Fred's Rifle Stocks" to its current status as a national non-profit that has trained over 200,000 people. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the NRA Meeting and Guest 00:16 Project Appleseed's Presence at the NRA Show 01:28 Background and Mission of Project Appleseed 02:35 Historical Significance of April 19, 1775 04:05 Heritage, Heritage, Heritage: The American Revolution 05:23 Shared Heritage and American Unity 06:01 Civic Education and Community Involvement 07:03 Origins of Project Appleseed and Its Evolution 09:36 Marksmanship Programs and Instructor Training 12:02 Expanding to Pistol and Youth Programs 14:38 Inclusive Community and Volunteer Efforts 15:59 How to Find and Participate in Appleseed Events 17:27 What to Expect at an Appleseed Shoot 20:30 The Structure of a Typical Appleseed Event 22:03 Event Duration, Cost, and Equipment Needs 24:02 Youth and Accessibility in Appleseed Programs 25:30 The Importance of Heritage and Responsibility 29:36 The Shot Heard Around the World and Its Legacy 30:54 Reviving the Spirit of Liberty and Heritage 31:04 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Resources Official Website: Appleseedinfo.org Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/projectappleseed https://x.com/AppleseedNation https://www.instagram.com/project_appleseed/ https://www.youtube.com/@AppleseedNation Book Recommendation: Paul Revere's Ride by David Hackett Fischer https://www.amazon.com/Paul-Reveres-David-Hackett-Fischer/dp/0195098315 Sponsor: Beretta Holding (https://berettaholding.com/) The Mission: Project Appleseed is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to returning the U.S. to a "nation of riflemen" and ensuring the history of the American Revolution is passed down through hearts and minds. The "Three Strikes" of History: Tom recounts the pivotal moments of Lexington and Concord, explaining why April 19th was a "death sentence" for the colonists who chose to stand against the British regulars. Marksmanship Training: 25-Meter Program: Using scaled targets to simulate shooting at 100, 200, 300, and 400 yards. The AQT: The "Appleseed Qualification Test," a timed program of fire from standing, sitting/kneeling, and prone positions. New Pistol Program: Developed to reach a wider audience in areas where long-distance ranges are unavailable. The "Red Hat" Standard: Becoming an instructor requires approximately 160 hours of hands-on training and achieving an "Expert" score on the qualification test. A Family Affair: The program has evolved from a "hairy-legged men’s" club to a family-friendly environment where moms in yoga pants and kids as young as seven or eight learn side-by-side. Keywords Project Appleseed, American heritage, marksmanship, civic education, NRA, history, firearms training, NRAAM, Forge of Freedom DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast. Key Discussion Points

Show Notes Episode 203. The First 30 Seconds: Ed Monk on the Time & Math of Stopping Active Shooters In this powerful conversation from the NRA Annual Meeting in Houston, Alex Ooley sits down with Ed Monk, author of First 30 Seconds and founder of Last Resort Firearms Training, for a no-nonsense discussion on active shooter response. Ed breaks down the cold, unforgiving reality of “time and math” in active shooter events: the average attacker shoots a new victim every 3–5 seconds in the critical first minute. That means the difference between single-digit casualties and double-digit tragedies is often decided in the first 30 seconds. Drawing from decades of military experience, years of research into past attacks, and real-world hero stories, Ed explains why the standard “Run, Hide, Fight” model gets it backwards — and why the correct order for those who are able must be Fight, Flee, Barricade. He dismantles common myths about hardening buildings, metal detectors, school resource officers, and waiting for police, while showing what actually works: having willing, present, and capable people ready to stop the threat immediately. Whether you’re a school administrator, church leader, business owner, or armed citizen, this episode delivers uncomfortable but life-saving truths about turning the odds in favor of the victims instead of the attacker. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Active Shooter Training and Background 05:10 The Military and Educational Perspective on Violence 11:22 Transitioning from Research to Public Speaking 12:30 The First 30 Seconds: Overview of the Book 17:18 Understanding the Time and Math Problem in Active Shooter Situations 27:39 Heroes in Action: Real-Life Examples of Courage 32:04 The Math of Violence: Understanding Active Shooter Dynamics 35:37 Planning for the Worst: Accepting Reality in Active Shooter Scenarios 41:14 Rethinking Response: Fight, Flee, or Barricade? 48:50 Empowering Educators: The Role of Teachers in Crisis Management Resources First 30 Seconds (Book) - https://www.amazon.com/First-30-Seconds-Shooter-Problem/dp/B0FFDMBKMQ/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.iBio5AmDoAakqtMiuP7wLuGeJfeO0cVfARuZBXZ7yvqN2MmM5zTVVJ19ccXZmOsXmvYLI7a391_A_VQcsVgZIxYoSymIk-pAjhV-C6c0vVogIOiJFsZM8AxTLQ7IAIYVEvVO5TzoiEFTgqNBt0oKZ71NiWM9l_lkEP0zrf8Ypec3pk1XKOE7pTsExiLwkCAjvy5cosFh5cwhhC8YgG80Rp62GUkw0QLhO2BFJ_7ylGQ.-K0bJHvRwqaGld6L8FTbGjAJxdjVowU7qFb2ruqp94s&dib_tag=se&keywords=first+30+seconds&qid=1776537815&sr=8-1 Last Resort Firearms Training –  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057584853533 Book Website - https://first30-seconds.com Episode 134 of Forge of Freedom https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-134-active-shooter-response-with-ed-monk/ Email - [email protected] Keywords Active Shooter, Response Time, Firearms Training, School Safety, Violence Prevention, First 30 Seconds, Emergency Preparedness, Law Enforcement, Security Strategies DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 202. How NRA ILA Mobilizes Grassroots for Gun Rights (w/ David Conte) This episode features an in-depth discussion with David Conte about the NRA ILA's efforts, grassroots activism, and how members can get involved to protect gun rights. We explore the importance of grassroots campaigns, upcoming events, and strategies for influencing legislation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Forge of Freedom Podcast 02:05 Understanding the Find Your NRA Event 06:03 The Role of NRA ILA in Gun Rights Advocacy 11:59 Grassroots Activism and Member Involvement 17:58 Conclusion and Call to Action Resources NRA ILA Official Website - https://www.nraila.org/ Find Your NRA Event Brochure - https://www.nraila.org/events/ Grassroots Activism Guide - https://www.nraila.org/articles/ Keywords NRA, NRA ILA, grassroots activism, gun rights, political campaigning, NRA event, voter outreach, legislative efforts, firearm safety, political strategy DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 201. The Conservative War Creed This episode explores the contradictions in conservative principles supporting expansive military intervention, drawing parallels with the conservative drug war framework. It questions how support for war conflicts with limited government ideals and examines the historical and philosophical implications of perpetual warfare. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Current Conflict 02:55 The Conservative War Creed 10:44 War and Liberty: A Dangerous Relationship Resources Laurence Vance's Conservative Drug War Creed https://www.lewrockwell.com/2018/06/laurence-m-vance/the-conservative-drug-war-creed/ Laurence Vance https://www.fff.org/author/laurence-m-vance/ (@FutureofFreedom) https://mises.org/profile/laurence-m-vance (@mises) https://libertarianchristians.com/author/laurence/ (@LCIOfficial) Ludwig von Mises https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Ludwig+von+Mises Murray Rothbard https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Murray+Rothbard Choice by @BobMurphyEcon https://www.amazon.com/Choice-Cooperation-Enterprise-Human-Action/dp/1598132180 The Forge of Freedom Podcast https://theforgeoffreedom.com Keywords war, liberty, conservative principles, foreign policy, interventionism, Mises, Rothbard, military-industrial complex, American empire, constitutional government DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 200. Alex Pretti, ICE, and the Second Amendment Smokescreen In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley delves into the complex case of Alex Pretti, who was shot by federal agents during an immigration enforcement operation. Ooley discusses the nuances of the incident, the legal standards surrounding the use of deadly force, and the implications of the actions taken by both Pretti and law enforcement. Through a detailed analysis of video evidence and legal principles, he explores the challenges in determining the justification of the shooting and the broader societal implications of such incidents. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Alex Pretti Shooting 03:28 Setting the Stage: The Incident Overview 09:12 Legal Standards for Police Use of Deadly Force 18:25 Analyzing the Video Evidence 25:24 Conclusions and Implications of the Shooting 26:07 Justifying Use of Force 28:53 The Role of Perception in High-Stress Situations 34:33 Analyzing the Escalation of Events 38:18 Mistakes on Both Sides 43:10 Government Messaging and Public Perception Resources Videos Referenced https://picoshare.relativelyprivate.com/-cSuYZNgCkK/B16B29BF-F136-4C4D-A94B-5B04B5B61A8E.mp4 https://www.reddit.com/r/law/comments/1qlvpbr/footage_of_the_grey_coat_officer_retrieving_the/ https://picoshare.relativelyprivate.com/-E3nk9KZKTE/E6317EB7-E5E6-4DB7-98C2-9EBF36835C1C.mp4 https://www.reddit.com/r/Minneapolis/comments/1qlpzu8/another_ice_murder_in_front_of_glam_doll_donuts/?utm_name=web3xcss CNN Video https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/29/us/video/ebof-alex-pretti-shooting-analysis-gianni-toboni USA Today (featuring Rob Pincus) https://www.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2026/01/24/minneapolis-shooting-video-analysis-alex-pretti/88338183007/ Amy Swearer https://www.nationalreview.com/corner/alternative-answers-in-the-political-rorschach-test-of-alex-prettis-death/ Andrew Branca https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QT_tSHYo6U John Correia (Active Self Protection) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rRl_BNfgIHo Tom Grieve https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFSBPEQYSFE John Bryan & Patrick Jaicomo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RHdJdRp-6c Jury Instructions re Force https://juryinstructions.ca8.uscourts.gov/instructions/criminal/Criminal-Jury-Instructions.pdf https://juryinstructions.ca8.uscourts.gov/ 18 U.S.C. 111 https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title18-section111&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.cato.org/blog/second-amendment-meaningless-government-can-kill-you-exercising-it Graham v. Connor https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/490/386/ Tennessee v. Garner https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/471/1/ In re Neagle https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/135/1/ X posts https://x.com/tenthamendment/status/2017006645944152251?s=43 https://x.com/Guntalk/status/2016150523406385604 https://x.com/fmrrepmtg/status/2015421468423729606?s=43 https://x.com/realspikecohen/status/2015212934780145771?s=43 https://x.com/TheBrancaShow/status/2015188635876766090 https://x.com/rapidresponse47/status/2015191400740995356?s=43 https://x.com/GunOwners/status/2018485712081891440 https://x.com/DHSgov/status/2015115351797780500 https://x.com/StephenM/status/2015127971485413805 https://x.com/thereal_SnS/status/2015575046404653276 https://x.com/USAttyEssayli/status/2015121052201087371 https://x.com/Acyn/status/2016207658622320795 https://x.com/BulwarkOnline/status/2015200598161797173 DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 199. City of Gary v. Smith & Wesson: Ending 26 Years of Lawfare In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the recent dismissal of the City of Gary versus Smith and Wesson lawsuit, a case that has lasted over 26 years. The conversation delves into the concept of lawfare, where the legal system is used as a weapon to impose costs and achieve policy outcomes without legislative action. Ooley explains the implications of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) and the Indiana General Assembly's recent legislation that limits the ability of cities to sue firearm manufacturers. The episode concludes with reflections on the broader implications of this case for the legal system and democratic accountability. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and New Year Greetings 00:30 The Dismissal of City of Gary vs. Smith and Wesson 01:10 Understanding Lawfare and Its Implications 06:07 The Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act 08:55 The Role of Indiana's Legislation in the Case 10:32 Broader Implications of the Case on Law and Policy Resources Smith & Wesson Corp. v. City of Gary (Ind.App., 2025) https://public.courts.in.gov/Decisions/api/Document/Opinion?Id=gGTF-6-ACU7XYO2CNCjB7ZhYnzf0SvNDQ4wFQBfGLJhtN15JdMI2r-U_SAoZIlYD0 Guy Relford https://omny.fm/shows/the-gun-guy-podcast/gun-guy-full-show-12-27-2025 Facebook: @guy.relford.2025 X:  @guyrelford AG Todd Rokita https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1289904319820449&set=a.230626505748241 @agtoddrokita The Reload https://thereload.com/indiana-appeals-court-tosses-26-year-old-liability-lawsuit-against-smith-and-wesson/ X:  @Jake_Fogleman @TheReloadSite Morningstar https://www.morningstar.com/news/pr-newswire/20251230dc54832/nssf-praises-indiana-court-decision-to-end-city-of-gary-lawsuit Indy Star https://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2025/12/29/indiana-court-of-appeals-upholds-indiana-law-to-kill-garys-gun-lawsuit/87948004007/?gnt-cfr=1&gca-cat=p&gca-uir=true&gca-epti=z115150p116250c116250d00----v115150d--44--b--44--&gca-ft=165&gca-ds=sophi @jordantsmith09 Reason.com https://reason.com/volokh/2025/12/29/26-year-old-case-against-smith-wesson-et-al-by-gary-indiana-finally-over/ @VolokhC @reason The Indiana Lawyer https://www.theindianalawyer.com/articles/in-court-of-appeals-rules-lower-court-must-dismiss-gary-lawsuit-against-gun-industry @Indiana_Lawyer PLCAA https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title15/chapter105&edition=prelim Duke Center for Firearms Law https://firearmslaw.duke.edu/2019/12/new-decision-in-a-very-old-case-city-of-gary-v-smith-wesson-corp @DukeFirearmsLaw Keywords lawfare, City of Gary, Smith and Wesson, firearms litigation, legal system, public nuisance, PLCAA, Indiana General Assembly, separation of powers, democratic accountability DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 198. Religious Freedom: History, Law, and the Spirit of Christmas In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley explores the foundational concept of religious freedom in America, tracing its historical roots, legal interpretations, and its significance today. He discusses the First Amendment's intent, the impact of the 1947 Supreme Court case Everson v. Board of Education, and how religious liberty is essential for a free society. The conversation culminates in a reflection on Christmas as a representation of voluntary faith and the importance of keeping government out of personal belief systems. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Religious Freedom 00:58 Understanding the First Amendment 05:12 Historical Context of Religious Liberty 09:01 The Impact of the 1947 Supreme Court Case 13:33 The Importance of Religious Liberty Today 16:26 Christmas as a Reflection of Religious Freedom Resources https://mises.org/mises-wire/how-religious-freedom-america-was-founded-privatization-and-decentralization https://scholarship.law.missouri.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1988&context=facpubs https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-1/ https://law2.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/FTrials/conlaw/everson.html https://www.oyez.org/cases/1940-1955/330us1 https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/330/1/#tab-opinion-1939031 Takeaways The First Amendment's clauses on religion serve different functions. The Bill of Rights was originally a restraint on the federal government. Disestablishment of religion occurred organically, not through judicial decree. The founders aimed to prevent coercion, not to secularize society. The 1947 Supreme Court case changed the application of the Establishment Clause. Religious liberty is crucial for protecting individual conscience and community. Christmas exemplifies the beauty of voluntary faith expressions. Government should not define or mandate religious observance. The founders understood that belief cannot be compelled by law. A society that legislates belief is not truly free. Keywords religious freedom, First Amendment, church and state, Supreme Court, American liberty, historical context, Christmas, separation of church and state, Bill of Rights, freedom of conscience DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 197. Families Are the Key to Building Alternatives to the State In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley reflects on the significance of family during Thanksgiving, emphasizing its role as a foundational institution for civil society. He discusses how strong families can counteract state power and contribute to community engagement, civic participation, and religious involvement. The conversation highlights the decline of family structures and its implications for society, urging listeners to recognize the importance of familial bonds in preserving freedom and cultural strength. Chapters 00:00 Thanksgiving Reflections on Family and Freedom 01:39 The Role of Families in Civil Society 04:45 The Impact of Family Structure on Community Engagement 07:49 Marriage, Religion, and Civic Participation 10:36 The State's Influence on Family Dynamics 13:26 Cultural Strength and Independence through Family Resources https://mises.org/mises-wire/families-are-key-building-alternatives-state https://mises.org/mises-daily/what-has-government-done-our-families https://mises.org/mises-wire/leftists-still-want-abolish-family https://c4ss.org/content/16141 https://www.cato.org/policy-report/september/october-2015/hayekian-theory-parental-rights# https://ifstudies.org/blog/is-limited-government-the-best-pro-family-policy Mises Institute: Facebook:  @mises.institute X: @mises YouTube: @misesmedia Ryan McMaken on X: @ryanmcmaken Takeaways Families are essential for building alternatives to the state. The family is the most natural institution in human society. The decline of the family correlates with the decline of civil society. Married couples with children are more engaged in community activities. Religious institutions rely heavily on stable family structures. Marriage contributes to economic stability and civic engagement. Strong families foster social networks and community trust. Political views differ significantly between married and unmarried individuals. Civic engagement is often rooted in family dynamics. Cultural strength is nurtured through family relationships. Keywords Thanksgiving, family, freedom, civil society, community engagement, marriage, religion, political implications, cultural strength DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 196. Tactical First Aid and System Collapse Medicine with Greg Ellifritz In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley welcomes Greg Ellifritz, a retired police officer and founder of Active Response Training. They discuss the importance of tactical first aid and the MARCH protocol, which focuses on managing massive bleeding, airway, respiration, circulation, and head injuries. Greg shares his extensive background in law enforcement and training, emphasizing the need for practical skills in emergency situations. The conversation also covers system collapse medicine, preparedness, and the significance of having the right training and resources for various medical emergencies. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tactical Medicine and Training Background 07:00 Understanding Tactical First Aid vs. Standard First Aid 16:13 The MARCH Protocol: A Tactical Approach to Trauma 26:48 Massive Bleeding and Tourniquet Application 33:42 Tourniquet Application and Wound Packing 38:26 Understanding Tourniquet Misconceptions 46:31 Tourniquet Placement Controversies 50:17 Airway and Respiration Essentials 58:39 Addressing Opioid Overdoses with Narcan 01:04:45 Circulation and Wound Care Protocols 01:06:00 Suturing Skills: A Fun Yet Questionable Necessity 01:08:34 Wound Cleaning: The Importance of Proper Techniques 01:12:17 Wound Closure: Risks and Best Practices 01:15:54 Hypothermia and Head Injuries: Essential First Aid 01:17:07 System Collapse Medicine: Preparing for Emergencies 01:23:30 Gear Lists: Training Over Equipment 01:26:34 Beyond Tactical Medicine: Greg's Broader Work Resources Active Response Training https://www.activeresponsetraining.net/instructors Pat Rogers Memorial Revolver Round-Up at Gunsite https://www.gunsite.com/classes/pat-rogers-memorial-revolver-round-up/ Blackwing Shooting Center https://blackwingsc.com/training/training-courses/tactical-first-aid-system-collapse-medicine-with-greg-ellifritz/ Forge of Freedom (Choose Adventure: Safe Travel In Dangerous Places by Greg Ellifritz) https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-87-choose-adventure-safe-travel-in-dangerous-places-by-greg-ellifritz/ https://www.amazon.com/Choose-Adventure-Travel-Dangerous-Places-ebook/dp/B087BNB647/ref=as_li_ss_tl?dchild=1&keywords=choose+adventure+greg+ellifritz&link_code=qs&qid=1603676124&sourceid=Mozilla-search&sr=8-1&linkCode=sl1&tag=actiresptrai-20&linkId=ad30689c10bd209db766d553546c306c&language=en_US https://www.chooseadventurebook.com/ Forge of Freedom (Tactical First Aid and System Collapse Medicine After Action Report with Whitney Ooley) https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-130-tactical-first-aid-and-system-collapse-medicine-rerun-of-episode-38/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URWAdmQ_dG4 Tourniquets mentioned https://www.narescue.com/combat-application-tourniquet-c-a-t.html https://tacmedsolutions.com/products/sof-tourniquet?variant=40626596544711 Keywords tactical medicine, first aid, MARCH protocol, emergency preparedness, Greg Ellifritz, Active Response Training, system collapse medicine, wound care, airway management, CPR DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

Show Notes Episode 195. Rebuilding the NRA: Rob Beckman on Reform, Responsibility, and the Future of Armed Citizenship In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley speaks with Rob Beckman, a candidate for the NRA Board of Directors. They discuss Rob's background in firearms training, the importance of mental health awareness in the firearms community, and the ongoing reform efforts within the NRA, including the push for greater transparency and engagement with new demographics. Rob shares his motivations for running for the board, his vision for the future of the NRA, and the need for collaboration with other organizations in the gun rights movement. The conversation emphasizes the responsibility of gun owners and the importance of education and training in promoting safe firearm practices. Takeaways Rob Beckman emphasizes the need for mental health awareness in the firearms community. The NRA must engage with new demographics to grow its membership. Transparency in the NRA's financial dealings is crucial for rebuilding trust. Rob's podcast focuses on educating firearms instructors and owners. The importance of personal responsibility in gun ownership is highlighted. Collaboration with other gun rights organizations is essential for progress. Rob's candidacy is driven by a desire for reform within the NRA. The NRA's board structure may need to be streamlined for better efficiency. Rob believes in the importance of respectful communication with NRA members. The NRA is undergoing significant changes under new leadership.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rob Beckman and the NRA Board Election 02:40 Rob Beckman's Background and the Firearm Trainers Podcast 05:27 Addressing Mental Health in the Firearms Community 08:31 The Importance of Responsibility in Gun Ownership 11:03 The NRA's Reform Efforts and Rob's Motivation to Run 13:56 Rob's Vision for the NRA 2.0 and Key Priorities 16:46 Engaging the Membership and the Nomination Process 29:09 Engagement and Leadership in the NRA 35:30 Collaboration with Other Organizations 39:31 Reforming the NRA Board Structure 46:38 Awareness and Communication in NRA's Restructuring Resources Firearm Trainer’s Podcast https://www.firearmtrainerpodcast.com/ Elect a New NRA https://electanewnra.com/ NRA President’s Forum https://nrapresident.com/member-login/ Members Take Back Our NRA https://www.facebook.com/groups/309304408832668 Episode 167 of Forge of Freedom with Rob Beckman https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSxfqcPyNSo Organizational Changes at the NRA (John Richardson) https://onlygunsandmoney.com/?p=35784 NRA Announces Major Reorganization (John Petrolino) https://www.news2a.com/national/national-rifle-association-announces-major-reorganization/ Doug Hamlin Interview with Cam Edwards https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=68LrNEURAyY Previous Episodes of the Forge of Freedom re the NRA https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6_liiJJ_k4NgoT5yNSe6subWqvVN9cgo Theresa Inacker John Richardson Amanda Suffecool Jeff Knox Ronald Andring, Sr.  Keywords NRA, Rob Beckman, firearms training, mental health, NRA reform, gun rights, second amendment, firearms education, NRA board of directors, gun ownership responsibility DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.