The Clay Lab Network Podcast

By Will Fennell, Dawn Grant, Cody Matson & Cade Faetche

The Clay Lab brings you a collaborative podcast platform with many hosts about clay target sports including trap, skeet, sporting clays, and FITASC. Hosts like Will Fennell as a multi-time World an

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How many episodes does The Clay Lab Network Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 100 episodes available.

Best of The Clay Lab Network Podcast

The most played episodes among Podcast App listeners.

Number 1: Doctor Colo on the Critical Two Seconds That Transform Your Sporting Clays Shooting into Success – Matson Shooting Academy Podcast
Send us Fan Mail MSA Podcast Episode features Unlock the secret to effortless shooting mastery by tapping into your subconscious — discover how visual control and mental focus elevate your game beyond the physical. In this episode, renowned eye doctor Dr. Richard Colo joins shooting coach Cody Matson for a deep dive into the mental mechanics behind precision shooting. They explore groundbreaking insights on how to eliminate flinches, master visual attention, and seamlessly let the shot happen, rather than force it.You’ll discover: · The crucial difference between “making it happen” and “letting it happen,” and how your eyes lead your hands for more effortless, confident shots. · The three core elements of sports vision training: visual control, eyes-first focus, and soft fuzzy attention — and how to harness them for peak performance. · The impact of mental state transitions, like from conscious to subconscious, on shot accuracy — including how to conquer the dreaded flinch and target panic. · Practical routines, including breath control and eye pauses, that set up your brain to fire smoothly at the perfect moment. · Why high-level shooters accelerate their gun first, and how your visual attention influences that process. Whether you're a competitive shooter striving for that next level or an enthusiast eager to shoot more consistently, this episode reveals how understanding and training your vision can transform your results. Don’t rely on willpower alone — learn how your brain and eyes can work together behind the scenes to make shooting feel natural and effortless. Join Cody and Dr. Colo as they unpack proven techniques, surprising research, and personal experiences that put the power of the subconscious into your hands. Improve your focus, reduce anxiety, and unlock your true shooting potential—because seeing is winning. Perfect for shooters at all levels ready to go beyond mechanics and tap into your mental game. Tune in, and start letting your eyes do the work for you. Guest: Dr. Richard Colo, an acclaimed sports vision expert, brings over 35 years of experience helping shooters see their best. His work has changed how many top athletes approach performance through vision training. Doctor Richard Colo Links Website: https://doctorcolo.com/ Phone: (860) 558-4610 Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820 Matson Shooting Academy: https://www.matsonshootingacademy.com/ MSA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matsonshootingacademy/ Support the show 10% OFF ShotKam Coupon Code “TheClayLab”: https://bit.ly/TheClayLab-ShotKam Visit Us at www.claylabusa.com for videos, podcasts, and articles about Sporting Clays. Join as a Channel Member for early access to Videos & Podcasts and to support The Clay Lab Find us on Social Media YouTube Instagram Facebook
August 20, 202651min
Number 2: Russ McElyea on the Mental Game, Flow State & Sporting Clays Competition – Clay Mastermind with Dawn Grant: Mental Excellence and Industry Insight
Send us Fan Mail Russ McElyea joins Dawn Grant on Clay Mastermind: Mental Excellence and Industry Insights for a deep conversation on Sporting Clays, mental discipline, flow state performance, instruction, competition mindset, and the evolution of one of Montana’s premier shooting facilities. Russ is a longtime competitive shooter, instructor, outdoorsman, former judge, and board member at Gallatin Sporting Clays near Bozeman, Montana. In this episode, Russ shares how his shooting journey originally began through bird hunting and a desire to become a better shot for his English Setter and hunting companions. After starting in skeet more than 35 years ago, Russ and a small group of dedicated shooters pooled their resources together to create what eventually became Gallatin Sporting Clays. What started with two traps on a small piece of land eventually evolved into a major facility featuring multiple Sporting Clays courses, FITASC layouts, five stands, and more than 150 traps, all operated through volunteer passion and community support. Dawn and Russ discuss the unique culture surrounding the Montana shooting community, the importance of preserving quality facilities, and the dedication required to build and maintain a successful club. Russ explains how every dollar generated by the club is reinvested directly into improving the facility, creating a strong sense of ownership and pride among members and volunteers. A major focus of the episode centers around the mental game and how Russ developed an awareness of flow state performance through years of participating in outdoor sports including mountain biking, dirt biking, skiing, hunting, rifle competition, handgun competition, and Sporting Clays. Russ explains how many high-speed sports demand a complete absence of conscious thought and how that same subconscious flow state becomes critical in shotgun sports as well. Dawn and Russ explore the concept of the zone, the importance of letting go, trust, confidence, emotional control, and the challenge of quieting the conscious mind under pressure. Russ discusses how over-analysis, excessive control, and attachment to outcomes can interfere with performance, while belief, trust, positivity, and emotional discipline help shooters access peak performance states more consistently. The conversation also explores the similarities between life and Sporting Clays. Russ shares how adversity, frustration, setbacks, and struggle often become the greatest teachers in both competition and personal growth. Dawn and Russ discuss why confidence with humility creates a stronger competitor than arrogance, why many elite shooters possess exceptional self-discipline, and how true growth often comes through learning to release self-imposed limitations. Russ also shares stories from his professional background as an attorney, ski resort executive, and judge, explaining how those experiences shaped his perspective on discipline, objectivity, self-awareness, leadership, and personal accountability. He explains how those same traits later carried over into coaching, instruction, and competition shooting. This episode offers valuable insight for Sporting Clays shooters, instructors, competitors, club owners, and anyone interested in mental performance, flow state, emotional discipline, and the connection between mindset, sport, and life itself. Russ McElyea Links Gallatin Sporting Clays Website: https://gallatinsportingclays.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GallatinSportingClays/ Instagram: I could not find an official public Instagram account for Gallatin Sporting Clays or Russ McElyea. Phone: 406-209-2144 Location: Gallatin Sporting Clays Bozeman, Montana Contact Page: https://gallatinsportingclays.com/contact-us/ Dawn Grant Links https://dawngrant.com/ https://mindmastered.com/ https://ameliashotgunsports.com/ Free webinar here: https://f.mtr.cool/wehmqlchqh Support the show 10% OFF ShotKam Coupon Code “TheClayLab”: https://bit.ly/TheClayLab-ShotKam Visit Us at www.claylabusa.com for videos, podcasts, and articles about Sporting Clays. Join as a Channel Member for early access to Videos & Podcasts and to support The Clay Lab Find us on Social Media YouTube Instagram Facebook
August 03, 202657min
Number 3: Todd Hitch – 2025 US Open Champion Talks Timing in Sporting Clays, How to Systematically Practice, & Controlled Aggression in Shooting- Matson Shooting Academy Podcast
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Mattson Shooting Academy Podcast, host Cody Matson interviews Todd Hitch, the 2025 U.S. Open Champion, in a compelling conversation that explores the mindset, preparation, and path behind his major victory. Winning the U.S. Open—one of the most prestigious events sanctioned by the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA)—is a monumental achievement, marking Todd as one of the top competitors in the sport. Todd dives into the strategies that led to his success, including a focus on timing, consistency, and maintaining mental composure under pressure. He emphasizes the importance of “letting go” during the shot—trusting his instincts and training rather than overthinking. Aggression and confidence, he explains, are key at the highest levels of competition. His journey from the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) to competing on the national stage with the NSCA highlights years of growth, mentorship, and long-term goal setting. Todd reflects on how these experiences helped shape his shooting style and mental approach. Todd’s success is also fueled by the support of several major sponsors. He is proudly backed by Remington, whose shotguns he relies on in competition; Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing, which ensures peak firearm performance; Castellani USA, which outfits him with professional-grade shooting gear; and Jack Link’s, supporting his performance with nutrition and energy. The episode also touches on Todd’s earlier major win at the Kings Cup, showcasing his continued rise through the sport. His story is one of relentless dedication, adaptability, and passion, offering valuable lessons for aspiring shooters everywhere. Todd Hitch’s 2025 U.S. Open title stands as a powerful testament to what focus and commitment can achieve at the highest levels of competitive sporting clays. Todd Hitch: (865) 307-2769 Website: https://toddhitch.com/ Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820 Matson Shooting Academy: https://www.matsonshootingacademy.com/ MSA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matsonshootingacademy/ Takeaways -Todd Hitch emphasizes the importance of timing in shooting. -He dedicated 20 practice days leading up to the US Open. -Consistency in technique is crucial for success. -Mental focus and process-oriented thinking help overcome pressure. -Todd believes in the importance of staying aggressive during shooting. -He uses specific training techniques to improve his performance. -Observing other shooters can provide valuable insights. -Todd's motivation comes from personal standards rather than competition with others. -The balance between aggression and caution is key in shooting. Letting go is crucial for making successful shots. -Recognizing when to pull the trigger is key. -Long-term goals are essential for success in shooting. -Winning the Kings Cup was a historic achievement. Support the show 10% OFF ShotKam Coupon Code “TheClayLab”: https://bit.ly/TheClayLab-ShotKam Visit Us at www.claylabusa.com for videos, podcasts, and articles about Sporting Clays. Join as a Channel Member for early access to Videos & Podcasts and to support The Clay Lab Find us on Social Media YouTube Instagram Facebook
May 22, 202551min
Number 4: Mike McHenry - Station Planning, Practice Isn't Overrated, & What Seeing the Target Really Means - Matson Shooting Academy Podcast
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Madison Shooting Academy Podcast, host and guest Mike McHenry dive deep into the dynamic world of sporting clays, offering a compelling blend of personal story, practical wisdom, and performance psychology. Mike shares his fascinating evolution from antique shotgun collector to competitive shooter, revealing how a passion for classic firearms led to a deep commitment to mastering modern clay target disciplines. With decades of experience and a methodical mindset, he discusses what it takes to grow as a shooter—whether you're a weekend enthusiast or striving for podium finishes. Listeners will get an inside look at Mike’s preferred shooting styles, how he approaches training sessions, and why community and mentorship are vital parts of the sport. He also breaks down the mental and visual skills that separate good shooters from great ones—including the power of personal routines, staying present, and reaching the elusive "flow state." From timing and eye-hand coordination to managing performance pressure, overcoming slumps, and building confidence through consistency, this episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to sharpen their edge in sporting clays or just get more enjoyment out of every round. Whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned competitor, Mike’s honest and thoughtful approach to continuous improvement will leave you motivated and more mindful next time you step onto the course. Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820 Matson Shooting Academy: https://www.matsonshootingacademy.com/ MSA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matsonshootingacademy/ Takeaways -Mike McHenry has been a shooter all his life, starting with handguns and rifles before transitioning to shotguns. -Mike has a diverse collection of antique shotguns but now primarily uses target guns. -He enjoys practicing and believes in shooting two to three targets for every registered target. -Mike's current target gun is a Caesar Guerini Invictus 5. -He primarily shoots pull away but varies his method based on the target presentation. -Mike emphasizes the importance of having a plan before shooting and adapting if things don't go as expected. -He enjoys the analytical side of shooting, looking for root causes of mistakes. -He appreciates the camaraderie and community within the shooting sport. You have to build your own routines for success. -Visual focus is a critical skill in shooting. -Achieving a flow state enhances shooting performance. -Timing your eye focus is essential for accuracy. -Visual challenges can affect shooting performance. -Confidence plays a significant role in shooting success. -Setting realistic expectations helps in competitive shooting. -Plateaus are a natural part of performance improvement. -Taking breaks can help reset and improve shooting skills. Support the show 10% OFF ShotKam Coupon Code “TheClayLab”: https://bit.ly/TheClayLab-ShotKam Visit Us at www.claylabusa.com for videos, podcasts, and articles about Sporting Clays. Join as a Channel Member for early access to Videos & Podcasts and to support The Clay Lab Find us on Social Media YouTube Instagram Facebook
May 15, 202542min
Number 5: Justin “LAXY” Covillon – Founding Gunsbay, a More Safe & Simple Online Marketplace for Shooters & Their Firearms - Matson Shooting Academy Podcast
Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Justin Covillon shares his journey from the laboratory diagnostic world to the realm of clay target sports and the creation of GunsBay.com , an online marketplace for firearms. He discusses the importance of community in shooting sports, the challenges faced in launching the platform, and the commitment to giving back to the shooting community. The conversation highlights the camaraderie among shooters and the innovative approach to making gun sales more accessible and trustworthy. In this conversation, Justin Covillon discusses the intricacies of gun sales, focusing on the importance of vetting processes, auction dynamics, and the unique stories behind certain firearms. He shares his experiences at the Holts auction, the challenges of importing firearms, and the significance of community and networking within the gun industry. Justin emphasizes the importance of customer service and building trust with clients as he aims to grow his business, Guns Bay. Justin Covillon is a competitive shooter trying to bring a better option to the firearm industry where its more safe, cheaper, and simple to be in the marketplace 10% OFF ShotKam Coupon Code “TheClayLab”: https://bit.ly/TheClayLab-ShotKam Gunsbay PROMO Code: TheClayLab (List for $5) Only for 2 months after this posts! Website: https://gunsbay.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gunsbayinsta/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/GunsBay/ Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820 Matson Shooting Academy: https://www.matsonshootingacademy.com/ MSA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matsonshootingacademy/ Takeaways -Justin transitioned from the laboratory diagnostic world to clay target sports during COVID. -He emphasizes the strong sense of community and camaraderie in shooting sports. -Guns Bay was created to provide a modern online marketplace for firearms. -The platform aims to simplify the buying and selling process for firearms. -Guns Bay aims to support the shooting community through sponsorships and events. -The platform offers a low-cost listing option for sellers to encourage participation. -The conversation underscores the importance of trust and transparency in online gun sales. Vetting is crucial for both buyers and sellers in gun sales. -Good protections are in place for transactions. -Unique firearms often come with fascinating histories. -Experiencing the Holtz auction was a memorable event. -Importing firearms involves navigating various regulations. -The community aspect enhances the experience of gun enthusiasts. -Customer service is a priority for building trust. -GunsBay aims to alleviate headaches for customers. Support the show 10% OFF ShotKam Coupon Code “TheClayLab”: https://bit.ly/TheClayLab-ShotKam Visit Us at www.claylabusa.com for videos, podcasts, and articles about Sporting Clays. Join as a Channel Member for early access to Videos & Podcasts and to support The Clay Lab Find us on Social Media YouTube Instagram Facebook
May 11, 202535min