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In this captivating episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Joe Carey, a man who defied the odds to become a national champion in the competitive world of shooting sports. Joe's story begins in New Jersey, where he grew up with a passion for shooting that was sparked by a Red Ryder BB gun at the tender age of five. This early interest was nurtured by his father, a keen hunter, who introduced Joe and his brothers to small game hunting. The fields of New Jersey provided a rich training ground, where they honed their skills hunting quail, pheasant, and rabbit.

As the local wildlife began to dwindle, Joe's love for shooting found a new outlet in clay shooting. Alongside his brothers, he frequented local ranges, mastering the art of wobble skeet. Despite the demands of a full-time job as a carpenter, Joe's dedication to the sport never wavered. He spent weekends competing in local tournaments, gradually building the pressure-handling skills that would later prove invaluable on the national stage.

Joe's rise to prominence in the shooting world is a testament to his perseverance and self-taught mastery. Without the luxury of professional coaching, he and his brothers relied on each other, learning through practice and observation. This grassroots approach paid off when Joe clinched the national championship in 2004, a victory that was as much about mental fortitude as it was about technical skill. Joe's ability to embrace pressure, rather than succumb to it, set him apart from his competitors.

Throughout the episode, Joe shares insights into his journey, offering a unique perspective on balancing a demanding career with a passion for shooting. He reflects on the importance of setting goals, maintaining focus, and the value of a supportive community. Joe's story is not just about winning titles; it's about the journey of self-discovery and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Listeners will be inspired by Joe's humility and determination, as he recounts the challenges and triumphs that shaped his path. His story serves as a powerful reminder that with dedication and the right mindset, even the most ambitious dreams are within reach. Whether you're a shooting enthusiast or simply in search of motivation, Joe Carey's journey is sure to resonate and inspire.

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

Matson Shooting Academy: https://www.matsonshootingacademy.com/

MSA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matsonshootingacademy/

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In this engaging episode, we dive deep into the world of competitive clay shooting with Johnny Carter, a passionate shooter and the creative mind behind TGS Outdoors. Johnny takes us on a journey through his fascinating career, from his early days as a gamekeeper in North Africa to managing a gun shop and eventually building a thriving YouTube channel dedicated to clay shooting. His story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Throughout the episode, Johnny shares the myriad challenges faced by competitive shooters, emphasizing the importance of mastering both the physical and mental aspects of the sport. Listeners will gain insights into the mechanics of shooting, the significance of mental focus, and the strategies employed by top shooters to maintain composure under pressure. Johnny's candid discussion about his own experiences, including the highs and lows of competition, offers a relatable perspective for both seasoned competitors and newcomers to the sport.

The conversation also explores the evolving role of social media in promoting clay shooting. Johnny discusses how platforms like YouTube have transformed the way shooters connect with audiences, share their experiences, and grow the sport. He highlights the challenges of navigating social media's restrictions on gun-related content and the creative strategies he employs to engage his audience.

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the mental game of shooting. Johnny and our host delve into the psychological aspects that can make or break a shooter's performance. They discuss the importance of mental resilience, the impact of squad dynamics, and the techniques used to enter a flow state during competitions. Johnny's insights into the mental preparation required for success in clay shooting are both enlightening and practical.

Listeners will also enjoy Johnny's humorous anecdotes and personal reflections, which add a light-hearted touch to the episode. His passion for the sport is infectious, and his dedication to continuous improvement is inspiring. Whether you're looking to enhance your shooting skills, gain a deeper understanding of the sport, or simply enjoy an entertaining conversation, this episode offers something for everyone.

Join us for a captivating exploration of competitive clay shooting, where personal stories, expert advice, and a touch of humor come together to provide a comprehensive look at what it takes to succeed in this challenging and rewarding sport.

Dawn Grant Links 
https://dawngrant.com/
https://mindmastered.com/ 
https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery

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Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with Delbert Whitman, a seasoned gunsmith and gun fitter from Michigan. Delbert shares his journey from a small town in Minnesota to becoming a renowned expert in custom part fabrication and vintage gun restoration. Discover his passion for woodworking, competitive shooting, and the art of gun fitting. Delbert also delves into the mental aspects of shooting and the importance of finding joy in your craft. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just curious about the world of gunsmithing, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Tune in for a fascinating conversation about precision, craftsmanship, and the flow state in shooting.

Dawn Grant Links 

https://dawngrant.com/

https://mindmastered.com/ 

https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery

Takeaways

·        Delbert transitioned to woodworking and custom gun fitting.

·        He grew up in a family that valued outdoor activities.

·        Gunsmithing school provided essential foundational skills.

·        Working with experienced gunsmiths shaped his career.

·        Client communication is crucial in gunsmithing.

·        Mental focus is key to successful shooting.

·        Enjoying the craft leads to better performance.

·        Building relationships with clients is rewarding.

·        Historical context enhances understanding of firearms.

·        Precision workmanship is a source of personal satisfaction.

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In this episode, we sit down with Connor Daniel, a rising star in the world of competitive shooting, who recently clinched victories at both the World FITASC and World Sporting Championships. Connor shares his journey and the meticulous preparation that goes into competing at such a high level.

Discover how Connor balances his practice routine, maintaining a 50-50 focus on both FITASC and sporting disciplines. He emphasizes the importance of consistent practice, shooting three to four times a week, and how this regularity helps him stay sharp and confident in both disciplines. Connor's approach to training is not just about quantity but also quality, ensuring that each session is purposeful and targeted towards improving specific skills.

Connor also discusses the challenges of competing in diverse conditions, from the cooler climates of England to the scorching heat of Cyprus. He shares how adapting to these environments is crucial, not just physically but mentally, as the conditions can significantly impact performance. Connor's experience highlights the importance of mental resilience and the ability to stay focused under pressure, even when faced with unexpected challenges like extreme weather.

The episode also explores the role of equipment in competitive shooting. Connor talks about his new Beretta DT11 and the custom fit stock that has become an integral part of his success. He explains how having the right equipment, tailored to his needs, enhances his performance by providing stability and comfort, allowing him to focus on his technique without distraction.

Connor's journey is also a testament to the value of experience. Having competed internationally before, he shares how previous experiences have helped him feel more comfortable and less nervous in high-stakes competitions. This experience not only benefits him but also allows him to mentor younger teammates, offering guidance and support as they navigate their first international competitions.

Throughout the episode, Connor provides practical tips for aspiring shooters, emphasizing the importance of setting goals, maintaining a disciplined practice schedule, and continuously seeking opportunities to compete and learn. His story is one of dedication, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Whether you're an experienced shooter or new to the sport, Connor's insights offer valuable lessons on what it takes to succeed in the competitive world of international shooting. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the strategies and mindset required to excel at the highest levels of competition.

Takeaways

·        Training and preparation strategies for international shooting competitions Mental focus is crucial for success in shooting.

·         Balancing practice routines between FITASC and sporting disciplines

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In this episode of the Will Fennell Podcast, we dive deep into the world of Shotkam with special guests Emily and David Stewart. Shotkam, a groundbreaking gun camera, is transforming the shooting experience by providing unparalleled insights into every shot. Join us as we explore the technical marvels and future innovations of this revolutionary device.

LABOR DAY SALE Starts 22 Aug 2025! Visit: https://bit.ly/TheClayLab-ShotKam

Technical Features and Benefits: Shotkam is not just a camera; it's a sophisticated tool designed to enhance shooting accuracy and understanding. Mounted under the barrel, it automatically records every shot by detecting gravitational forces and gun movements. This ensures that shooters can focus on their target without manual intervention. The camera's narrow field of view and slow-motion playback replicate the shooter's perspective, allowing for precise analysis of each shot. With built-in Wi-Fi, users can instantly review their footage on their smartphones, making it a seamless experience in the field.

Why Shotkam Stands Out: Unlike traditional cameras, Shotkam offers a unique reticle feature that shows exactly where the barrel was aimed. This, combined with its automatic recording capabilities, makes it an invaluable tool for both novice and professional shooters. Whether you're clay shooting or hunting, Shotkam helps identify why a shot was missed, focusing on the 'why' rather than just the 'where.' Its ability to simulate the shooter's visual discipline and slow down the action provides a realistic and educational experience.

Future Developments: The Shotkam team is committed to continuous innovation. With the recent release of the Gen 4 and Gen 4 Mini models, they've addressed the needs of both hunters and clay shooters. The Gen 4 offers extended battery life for challenging conditions, while the Mini provides a lightweight option for those focused on clay targets. Looking ahead, Shotkam aims to expand its app's language support and enhance user experience across both iOS and Android platforms. The company is also exploring new mounts and accessories to cater to a wider range of shooting styles and equipment.

Join us as we uncover the story behind Shotkam's success, from its humble beginnings to becoming a staple in the shooting community. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting, this episode offers valuable insights into how Shotkam can elevate your shooting game. Tune in to learn more about the future of shooting technology and how Shotkam is leading the charge.

Hashtags: #Shotkam #ShootingInnovation #GunCamera #TechInShooting

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In this episode of the Clay Mastermind podcast, host Dawn Grant welcomes Ed Preckel, the dynamic president of Top Gun Shooting Sports, renowned for his contributions to the sporting clays and clay target industry, particularly through the Make-A-Break game. Ed shares his journey from a childhood fascination with shooting to becoming a pivotal figure in the clay shooting world. His story is one of passion, perseverance, and innovation, as he recounts the early days of Top Gun Shooting Sports, which he co-founded in 1994 with a friend, and how it evolved into a family-run business.

Ed's deep-rooted love for shooting began in his youth, inspired by his father's hunting activities and his own early experiences with clay targets. This passion led him to co-create Top Gun Shooting Sports, where he wears multiple hats, from president to head of marketing and advertising. Ed's dedication to the sport is evident as he discusses the challenges and triumphs of running a business that travels across the country, setting up events and promoting the sport of clay shooting.

A significant part of Ed's narrative is the development and popularization of the Make-A-Break game, which he began promoting in 1997. This innovative game has become a staple in the clay shooting community, known for its engaging format and competitive spirit. Ed's vision extends beyond just running a successful business; he dreams of elevating clay shooting to a professional sport, akin to golf or soccer, with widespread recognition and viewership.

Throughout the podcast, Ed emphasizes the importance of family in his journey. His children have been involved in the business from a young age, learning the ropes and contributing to the company's success. This family involvement underscores the personal nature of Ed's work and his commitment to passing on his passion for shooting to the next generation.

Ed's story is not just about business success but also about the broader impact of his work on the shooting sports industry. He highlights the potential for growth and the need for investment to bring clay shooting to a larger audience. His efforts to create a professional league and his involvement in youth shooting programs demonstrate his dedication to fostering a vibrant community around the sport.

In this engaging conversation, listeners gain insight into the world of clay shooting through Ed's experiences and aspirations. His story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in achieving one's dreams and making a lasting impact in a niche industry.

Top Gun Shooting Sports

Dawn Grant Links 

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https://mindmastered.com/ 

https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery

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In this episode of Clay Mastermind with Dawn Grant: Mental Excellence & Industry Insight, host Dawn Grant sits down with Bruce Potter, General Manager of Blackjack Sporting Clays in Florida. With over 20 years of passion and involvement in the shooting sports, Bruce shares his extensive journey—from his early days in Florida to becoming a well-respected figure in the clay shooting community.

Bruce offers valuable insight into the mental side of shooting, emphasizing that mental focus is crucial for success. He explains how fear can hinder performance, and stresses the importance of managing it by setting realistic goals that help shooters stay grounded and confident. He dives into the necessity of learning to lose, sharing personal lessons from both his successes and setbacks, and highlighting how those experiences have helped him grow as a shooter and mentor.

This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for aspiring shooters, seasoned competitors, and anyone looking to strengthen their mental approach. Bruce’s practical advice, grounded perspective, and commitment to the shooting lifestyle make this a must-listen for those looking to improve their performance and enjoyment in the sport.

Bruce Potter & Blackjack Sporting Clays

https://www.blackjackclays.com/

Phone: (352) 569 9469 

Email: [email protected]

Address: 3372 Co Rd 526 Sumterville, FL 33585

Dawn Grant Links 

https://dawngrant.com/

https://mindmastered.com/ 

https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery

Takeaways

·        Bruce Potter has been passionate about shooting for over 20 years.

·        Mental focus is crucial for success in shooting.

·        Fear can hinder performance and should be managed effectively.

·        Learning to lose is essential for growth in competitive shooting.

·        Positive mindset and enjoyment are key to a fulfilling shooting experience.

·        Seeking help can accelerate improvement in shooting skills.

·        Bruce emphasizes the importance of community in shooting sports.

·        Setting realistic goals can help manage fear and expectations.

·        Practice is necessary, but enjoyment should not be overlooked.

·        Bruce's journey illustrates the value of mentorship in shooting. 

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In this episode of the Matson Shooting Academy Podcast, host Cody Matson talks with Chad Roberts of Breakpoint Shooting Instruction, a three-time California In-State Champion, most recently winning the 2025 title. 

Chad’s shooting style has been shaped through years of experience and guidance from some of the most recognized names in the sport. He has trained under Anthony Matarese Jr., Zach Kienbaum, Wendell Cherry, and Ben Hustwaite—each offering different perspectives that helped refine his technical and mental game. He emphasizes that ongoing coaching has been central to his progress, and he encourages shooters at every level to seek structured guidance to accelerate their development. As the owner and head instructor at Breakpoint Shooting Instruction, Chad now applies those lessons to his students. His coaching philosophy is centered around helping each shooter discover and build on their individual strengths. He avoids one-size-fits-all methods, focusing instead on developing routines and habits that lead to consistent results. Chad openly discusses how his own mistakes over the years have become valuable learning tools and how those experiences shape the way he coaches others.

Chad also talks about the value of community within the shooting sports world. As a longtime member of the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA), he highlights the role that local clubs, national events, and organized competition play in supporting and growing the sport. He credits organizations like the NSCA and sponsors such as Sportsman’s Training Center for helping him and others access high-level training opportunities and a broader network of shooters. 

Chad Roberts - Breakpoint Shooting Instruction

Phone: 949-637-3001

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://poplme.co/hash/zSgH1DVz/1/hs

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

Matson Shooting Academy: https://www.matsonshootingacademy.com/

MSA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matsonshootingacademy/

Takeaways

·        He emphasizes the importance of finding one's own shooting style.

·        Coaching is a two-way street; both coach and student learn from each other.

·        Frustrations in competition can lead to growth and improvement.

·        Consistency in performance is key to success in shooting sports.

·        Understanding different shooting techniques is crucial for adaptability.

·        Experience plays a significant role in overcoming challenges in shooting.

·        The competitive spirit drives shooters to continually improve.

·        Community engagement is vital for the growth of shooting sports.

·        A rising tide lifts all boats; collaboration in the shooting community is essential.

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In this engaging conversation, Don Currie, chief instructor of the NSCA, shares his journey from a competitive shooter to a passionate instructor. He discusses the importance of mental training in shooting sports, the dynamics of gender in the sport, and offers valuable advice for aspiring shooters and coaches. The conversation highlights the significance of confidence, the role of mentors, and the need for a strong mental game in achieving success in shooting. Evolution of a Sporting Clays Shooter, Mental Process & Excessive Confidence.

Coach's Bio

Don Currie is the Chief Instructor of the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA) and one of the most recognized and sought-after professional shotgun coaches, gun fitters and range/course designers in North America. He delivers extraordinary instructional and hunting experiences to clay target competitors, recreational shooters, and discerning sportsmen. Currie is an award-winning author of two books, “Mastering Sporting Clays” and “Gunfitting,” published by Stackpole Books and has launched two highly acclaimed instructional DVDs with Sunrise Productions: “Focus-Movement-Faith” and “Target Tactics for Sporting Clays”. He writes for all of the major shotgun magazines as well as an e-column titled “Ask the Instructor” distributed weekly to over 40,000 sporting clays shooters. He started shooting competitively at age eight, bird hunting at age fourteen and coaching in the shooting sports as a sixteen-year-old apprentice. Currie served for seven years in the military as a US Army Ranger as well as an instructor at the US Army Ranger School and US Army Infantry School culminating in his command of a combat infantry company during Operation Just Cause (Panama, 1989/90). After leaving the Army, Currie transitioned into the corporate world serving 22 years in senior corporate leadership positions culminating in his role as CEO of a $100 million consumer products company.

Throughout his military and business career, he maintained a deep and unrelenting passion for competing in the shooting sports, coaching, and upland bird and waterfowl hunting, and was eventually drawn back to the shooting sports. Currie earned his way to Master Class on the NSCA competition circuit and won a National Championship title in side-by-side shotgun in 2011. Currie was the general manager of an exclusive shooting and hunting preserve in North Florida (The Gilchrist Club, Trenton, FL) where he established an Orvis Wingshooting and Fly fishing School. Since 2014, he has served as the Chief Instructor of the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA) and, in that capacity, teaches and mentors other sporting clays instructors and administers the NSCA’s instructor program in North America. Through his Academy of Wing & Clay Shooting, Currie continues to provide private and group shotgun instruction, gunfittings, custom shotgun sales, course design and guide services. He lives in Lake Mary, Florida with his wife and family.

Don Currie: ht

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In this episode of the Matson Shooting Academy podcast, host Cody Matson welcomes Travis Mears, a seasoned shooter and owner of Defender Outdoors Clay Sports Ranch. Travis shares his journey from a young shooter to a competitive athlete, discussing his early experiences, the establishment of his shooting range, and his current competitive season. The conversation delves into the mental strategies required to handle pressure during competitions, the importance of preparation, and the need for consistency in shooting techniques. Travis emphasizes the significance of practice and the mental game in achieving success in shooting sports. In this conversation, Travis Mears shares insights on developing a personal shooting style, the importance of adapting techniques to individual needs, and the significance of stepping out of one's comfort zone. He discusses the '20% rule' for hitting fast targets, the necessity of understanding target presentations, and how to visualize lead and distance. Mears also touches on the crossover between trick shooting and tournament shooting, emphasizing the need to switch mindsets between practice and competition. The discussion concludes with an invitation to upcoming shooting events and a call to explore the world of shooting further.

Travis Mears

Website: https://www.travismears.com/

Defender Outdoors: https://defenderoutdoors.com/

Shotgun Passion with Travis Mears YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf6yvB-9Fa6s59e9uNEOH7w

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

Matson Shooting Academy: https://www.matsonshootingacademy.com/

Takeaways

·        Travis founded Defender Outdoors Clay Sports Ranch to combine his passion for shooting with business.

·        He emphasizes the importance of mental strategies in overcoming pressure during competitions.

·        Preparation for competitions involves extensive practice and setting personal goals.

·        Travis believes in the importance of consistency in shooting techniques.

·        He advocates for a focused approach to practice, simulating competition conditions.

·        Travis shares insights on how to handle pressure and maintain composure during shoots.

·        He discusses the significance of visualizing targets and executing routines effectively.

·        Travis highlights the need for shooters to find their rhythm and maintain efficiency throughout their rounds. You have to build your own style and routine.

·        The more tools you have in your toolbox, the better off you'll be.

·        The 20% rule helps with big fast targets.

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