In this episode, the hosts discuss the evolution of podcasting, emphasizing the importance of regular content creation and the human touch in an AI-driven world.

They delve into practical tips for protecting optics on firearms, debunk myths surrounding the AR-15, and highlight the significance of training and gear. The conversation also includes recommended readings that can enhance understanding and preparedness in the realm of firearms and self-defense.

In this conversation, Prof Paul and Jarrad Markel explore the nuances of leadership, communication, and the importance of addressing mistakes. They discuss the significance of tact in leadership, the necessity of learning from both personal and others' mistakes, and the critical role of nutrition in strength training.

The dialogue emphasizes the need for clear communication and the prioritization of protein intake for effective recovery and muscle growth.

Takeaways

• Podcasting is more accessible than ever.
• Regular content creation is key to success.
• Pay attention to the world for content ideas.
• AI lacks the human touch in content creation.
• Protect your optics to avoid costly mistakes.
• Training is essential for effective firearm use.
• Debunking myths about the AR-15's safety.
• Recommended readings can enhance knowledge.
• Engagement in the moment is crucial for self-defense.
• Understanding gear is vital for preparedness.

TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE

• Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical | Blackout Coffee
• EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com
  • TOPIC: Protect your Dot - OpticGard on EFLX shoot-on.com
• Coffee Corner - studentofthegun.com/blackout - Use Code: STUDT20
  • TOPIC: Recommendations from Paul and Jarrad StudentoftheGun.com/bookshelf
• SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University
  • TOPIC: Can the AR Slam Fire when you load it? Why or Why not?

In this episode, we take a wide‑ranging journey through leadership, training, personal growth, and the pursuit of a healthier, more capable life.

The conversation kicks off with stories of nostalgia and lessons learned the hard way, then shifts to a thoughtful look at how simplicity—whether in firearms instruction or leadership—creates better students, better teams, and better outcomes.

We're joined by Connor Darnbrough, co‑founder of the SmartFit method, who shares his personal fitness journey and how it led to the development of a science‑based, AI‑enhanced training system built around one goal: improving healthspan.

Connor breaks down the latest SmartFit developments, including a study with Arizona State University focused on measurable improvements in longevity and performance.

Together, we dig into what actually matters in training today—strength, cardiovascular capacity, mobility, and recovery—and how tools like body scans, biomarkers, and adaptive modulators can give individuals a clearer picture of their absolute baseline.

Connor explains why sustainable progress requires balancing catabolic and anabolic stress, why 90‑day programs often create the fastest transformation, and why enjoyment and gratitude are essential parts of any long-term health strategy.

TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE

• Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Blackout Coffee | Spike's Tactical
• [0:11:06] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com
  • TOPIC: "Losing" Your Dot
• [0:20:56] Coffee Corner - studentofthegun.com/blackout
  • TOPIC: Read Kaufman's Art of War https://amzn.to/4qlVafx
• [0:32:03] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University
  • TOPIC: The Evolution of Firearms Training: FEATURES
  • Gun Review: Tisas PX-9 Gen3 Duty Pistol: www.shootingnewsweekly.com
• [0:47:52] Connor Darnbrough - Interview Part 1
  • Hear the Full Interview: Join the Grad Program

In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics, including the importance of voting for NRA members. For our Tech Talk this week, we discuss the latest advancements in laser technology for hunting with EOTech Inc.

During our new Coffee Corner from Blackout Coffee, Professor Paul will discuss the significance of reading different translations of classic texts, such as The Art of War and the Book of Five Rings.

Finally, we are joined by our friend, Jeff Kirkham for a discussion regarding daily productivity protocols for better living.

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today!

TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE

• Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical
• [0:11:02] EOTech Talk
  • TOPIC: Hog killing with "Lasers" www.eotechinc.com
• [0:26:24] Coffee Corner - studentofthegun.com/blackout | Use Code: STUDT20
  • TOPIC: Value in different translations of books? studentofthegun.com
• [0:39:02] Jeff Kirkham Interview Pt. 1 - A Daily Productivity Protocol to support a healthy mind
  • Hear the Full Interview! studentofthegun.com

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today!

Welcome to a brand new episode of Student of the Gun Radio. We are glad to have our correspondent, Louis Caras, back from the SHOT Show to give us an update about what he saw there.

During our Tech Talk from EOTech Inc. Louis will give us his take on the new EFLX CE optic having looked at a sample during SHOT. Also, Professor Paul will consider zeroing the optic on your pistol. What is the best distance to zero?

We have a Coffee Corner for you from Blackout Coffee. Please use promo code STUDT20 when ordering to support our show. We have more recommended reading for you. Paul's new book, Guns of the Cold War, is now available from us at SHOPSOTG.com.

For our SOTG Homeroom this week, we will continue with our evolution in firearms training series. This week we will consider the acronym SPORTS and how it is applied to clearing a stoppage in your rifle. Is SPORTS the best way or does it fall short?

TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE

• Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Blackout Coffee | Spike's Tactical
• 2026 NRA Board Member Ballot - Reminder to Vote
  • www.electanewnra.com for more information
• [0:08:35] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com
  • TOPIC: What distance should I zero my red dot?
• [0:40:27] Coffee Corner - BlackoutCoffee.com
  • TOPIC: Guns of the Cold War ShopSOTG.com
  • Use Code: STUDT20
• [0:42:45] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University
  • TOPIC: The Evolution of Firearms Training = SPORTS

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today!

Welcome to another thrill-packed, soon-to-be award-winning episode of Student of the Gun Radio. Several new products are being displayed in the annual SHOT Show in Las Vegas and during our Tech Talk from EOTech Inc we will discuss one of several exciting new additions to the EOTech line of optics.

We have yet another Coffee Corner from Blackout Coffee. Please purchase some Blackout Coffee using the STUDT20 promo code to help support our show.

For our Coffee Corner reading, Professor Paul will consider the opening chapter of the Book of Five Rings and how it applies to us in our modern world.

Continuing on with our series on the evolution of firearms training, Paul will address the practice of the "slingshot" method for running the slide on a semi-automatic handgun. Where did this practice originate and is it still valid today?

TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE

• Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical
• [0:05:20] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com
  • TOPIC: New EOTech Pistol optic: EFLX CE closed emitter www.eotechinc.com
• [0:21:15] Coffee Corner - www.studentofthegun.com/blackout
  • TOPIC: Book of 5 Rings by Musashi https://amzn.to/4quProL
  • Use Code: STUDT20
• [0:38:20] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University
  • TOPIC: "Slingshot" pistol racking: Where did it come from and Why?
  • NEXT WEEK: SPORTS

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today!

Today we welcome Louis Caras back as a special guest for the entirety of the episode.

During our Tech Talk from EOTech Inc, we will consider their brand new VUDU riflescope. Last year they introduced a 3-9x "super short".

This year they have a 4-12x "super short" only this one is a first focal plane riflescope. Which one is right for you? You'll have to decide that for yourself.

For our Coffee Corner from Blackout Coffee, we have another piece of recommended reading. This book is "The Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell. Specifically, Paul, Jarrad, and Louis will consider the importance of 10,000 hours.

We will continue our conversation regarding the Evolution of Firearms Training that began last week. For this installment we will discuss the Weaver Stance, why we used to do it and why we do not teach it anymore.

TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE

• Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical | Blackout Coffee
• [0:05:06] EOTech Talk
  • TOPIC: EOTech's New Vudu 4-12x36 SS FFP www.eotechinc.com
• [0:17:02] Coffee Corner - studentofthegun.com/blackout | STUDT20 for 20% off
  • TOPIC: The Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell and the 10,000 Hours
• [0:35:57] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University
  • TOPIC: The Evolution of Firearms Training - Why We don't Shoot the Weaver Stance

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today!

Happy New Year and welcome to another season of Student of the Gun Radio. As we consider where we are and where we would like to be during this new year, Professor Paul has some advice and encouragement. He details what we are calling the 1 Million Pound Challenge. Is it even possible to lift a million pounds of weight in a year? Listen louder.

We have a late Christmas present for you and you need to do is listen. Also, will the change of the calendar, during our Tech Talk from EOTech Inc, the Professor has some practical advice to offer.

For this week's Coffee Corner, from Blackout Coffee, Paul has another installment of recommended reading. This week it is The Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi. Which of the several versions should you purchase?

During our SOTG Homeroom from SOTGU, we are going to consider firearms training. Specifically, Paul will discuss how training has evolved and changed over the past forty years and why we do not do certain things that once seemed practical. For today's episode, we will take a look at the Speed Rock.

TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE

• Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical | Blackout Coffee
• [0:07:13] Student of the Gun Official Song Sneak Preview
• [0:09:50] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com
  • TOPIC: New Year, New Batteries?
• [0:21:33] Coffee Corner - www.studentofthegun.com/blackout
  • TOPIC: Read Book of 5 Rings by Stephen F Kaufman www.patriotbookshelf.com
  • Discount Code: STUDT20
• [0:29:49] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University
  • We Don't Do that Anymore: Speed Rock
• [0:47:51] 1 Million Pound Challenge www.shootingnewsweekly.com

Merry Christmas! This week, since it's Christmas Time, we're taking some time off from the show. But we still want you to have some stuff to listen to while you're road-tripping or cleaning up wrapping paper.

https://www.studentofthegun.com/radio

So today, we've got some Classic episodes for you. Some episodes that, unless you were around at the VERY beginning, you likely haven't heard!

Before we get into that, I just wanna say big thanks to our Partners who help this show happen.

EOTech, of course, bringing you this show each and every week. Check them out at EOTechInc.com, make good use of any money you may have gotten as a gift this season

Then there's our new friends at Blackout Coffee! If you go to studentofthegun.com/blackout use the Promo Code STUDT20 for 20% off your order of some of the best coffee you'll ever drink.

Now without further ado, let's get into it! Enjoy a couple of retro SOTG Radio episodes!