Making Shooters Better

In this episode, Terry Vaughan sits down with D. Austin-Johnson, a patrol officer he personally witnessed taking decisive action to help save a life during a medical emergency at this year's ALERRT Conference.

The conversation explores the unexpected collapse of an individual, the immediate response from Devyn and other first responders, and the importance of teamwork and calmness in crisis situations. They discuss the role of technology, such as AEDs, in emergencies and reflect on the significance of training and preparedness for law enforcement officers. Austin-Johnson shares his journey into law enforcement and the SWAT team, emphasizing the desire to help others and the importance of taking action in emergencies.

In this episode of Making Shooters Better, Terry Vaughan sits down with Tim Pearce, a former law enforcement officer whose career in South Central Los Angeles placed him face-to-face with violence, stress, and the limits of traditional training.

Tim shares how years in gang units shaped his understanding of human behavior under pressure, and how a heartbreaking personal tragedy forced him to confront a hard truth: most training doesn’t prepare officers for the physiological and psychological reality of a gunfight.

The conversation explores what happens to decision-making, motor skills, and mindset when stress takes over, why officers often develop coping mechanisms through experience rather than instruction, and how public perception and policy pressures compound the weight of the uniform.

Tim also explains how loss became the catalyst for innovation, leading him to develop a training system designed to replicate real-world stress and prepare officers for the worst day of their lives. The discussion goes beyond gear and tactics, focusing on resilience, mindset, and the human cost of policing in environments where mistakes are unforgiving.

This episode offers an unfiltered look at trauma, survival, and why realistic training under stress may be one of the most important tools we can give those who serve.

In this conversation, Terry Vaughan and Mike Willis delve into the critical aspects of instinctive response training for shooters, particularly in high-pressure situations. They discuss the importance of understanding stress responses, the necessity of situational awareness, and the value of realistic training environments. Mike shares his insights on effective training strategies, the role of technology in enhancing training, and the significance of maintaining a flexible mindset. The discussion emphasizes the need for shooters to build confidence through practice and to adapt their skills to dynamic environments, ultimately preparing them for real-world scenarios.

In this engaging conversation, Terry Vaughan speaks with Mike Farrell, an airline pilot and firearms training innovator. They discuss Mike's late start in shooting, the impact of 9/11 on aviation and firearms training, and the importance of psychological testing for pilots. Mike shares his unique experience of buying a Russian jet and reflects on the cultural shifts in aviation. The discussion also delves into the fundamentals of firearms training, the OODA loop, and the significance of mental health awareness in high-stress professions. In this conversation, Terry Vaughan and Mike discuss the critical aspects of firearms training, emphasizing the importance of trigger discipline, safety, and realistic training scenarios. They explore the prevalence of firearms accidents and the need for better training methods that integrate defensive tactics. The discussion highlights innovative solutions for firearms safety, the significance of feedback in product development, and the role of stress management in training.

When pressure hits, even champions get shaky. Olympic shooter Gabby Franco opens up about battling nerves, self-doubt, and the moment that changed how she measures success. In this conversation with host Terry Vaughan, Gabby reveals the mindset shift that separates great shooters from frustrated ones — and how you can train your brain to stay calm, focused, and resilient no matter the stakes.

In this engaging conversation, Candy Pedicord shares her journey into the world of firearms training, emphasizing the importance of empowering new shooters, especially women. She discusses the significance of quality training, finding the right instructor, and the need for mental preparedness in self-defense situations. Candy also highlights the role of parents in teaching children about firearms and the importance of awareness in today's society. Her passion for firearms education and safety shines through as she provides practical advice for both new and experienced shooters.

In this episode, Terry Vaughan, Kristen Wilson Day, and Michael DeGraeve discuss Michael's journey from military service to overcoming addiction and finding purpose through fitness and community. They explore the challenges faced during the transition to civilian life, the importance of support networks, and practical strategies for personal growth, including discipline, training techniques, and mental preparation. Michael shares insights on the significance of community involvement, particularly through Team Red, White, and Blue, and emphasizes the value of helping others as a measure of success.

In this episode of Making Shooters Better, host Terry Vaughan, co-host Kristen Wilson-Day, and guest Matt Hickman discuss a range of topics, including Matt's journey from law enforcement to his role at Dry Fire Mag, the importance of dry fire training, and the parallels between martial arts and firearms training. They explore the impact of stress on training, common mistakes new shooters make, and the future of shooter training with advancements in technology. The conversation emphasizes the value of family involvement in shooting sports and the significance of feedback in product development.

In this second episode, Terry Vaughan and Kristen Wilson Day welcome Eric Torres, a retired Green Beret and co-founder of the Memorial Valor Foundation. They discuss Eric's journey from military service to founding a non-profit that supports Gold Star families. The conversation covers the importance of leadership, the impact of competition shooting, and the foundation's mission to honor and remember fallen service members. Eric shares insights on creating a culture of remembrance and the emotional connections formed through their events.

In this debut episode of Making Shooters Better, former Royal Marines Commando and TOP SHOT Season 4 competitor Terry Vaughan sits down with Kristen Wilson Day — competitive shooter, firearms instructor, and the creative force behind Laser Ammo’s marketing — for a fast-paced, laugh-filled conversation about training smarter and building confidence under pressure. real shooters train smarter.

Kristen shares how “WTF Kristen” (Women Training Firearms) was born, why she starts new shooters on full-size 9mm pistols instead of .22s, and how confidence, curiosity, and community keep more women coming back to the range.

They dig into:

• The psychology of introducing women to firearms — and why support beats sarcasm.
• The difference between USPSA and IDPA competition (and which to try first).
• How dry fire training builds skill and confidence at home — safely and effectively.
• Why practicing in your own environment matters more than Hollywood-style heroics.
• The one mindset shift that helps every shooter — beginner or seasoned — get better.

Lighthearted, practical, and packed with takeaways, this episode reminds us that skill isn’t about ego — it’s about preparation, practice, and progress.