In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with Adam Swart, CEO of Crowds on Demand, for an eye-opening conversation about crowds, political demonstrations, free speech, and gun rights. Adam pulls back the curtain on his business, which specializes in orchestrating paid crowds and events for everything from political rallies to guerilla marketing stunts. We dive deep into the ethical challenges of paid protests, the influence of media, the dynamics of social movements, and the complex intersection of money, activism, and public perception.

Along the way, Adam gets candid about evolving his company’s approach, shares insights into how paid demonstrations may impact the Second Amendment narrative, and discusses the dangers of social media-fueled division in our country. We also touch on current events like campus protests, political polarization, and the responsibilities of both media and citizens when it comes to validating what we see. As always, Keith and I ask the tough questions and explore the gray areas around activism, ethics, and personal responsibility.

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Big thank you to our sponsors:

• Second Amendment Foundation: Defending your constitutional rights for over 50 years. Become a member today at saf.org.
• Onsight Firearms Training: Serious about your firearms training? Head to oftllc.us to find courses and level up your skills.

• Crowds and paid demonstrations have a huge impact on public perception, media coverage, and the effectiveness of political campaigns.
• The ethical considerations of orchestrating paid protests are complex—Adam shares how his views have evolved and how he prioritizes de-escalation and common sense.
• Most large movements in history combine genuine passion and strategic funding; they're rarely purely grassroots or entirely "manufactured."
• Financial anonymity in activism is often about protecting donors from cancel culture, but it can get abused, especially by bad actors or foreign interests.
• The relationship between media, activism, and public manipulation is more nuanced than most people think; always approach what you see—especially protests—like an advertisement.
• Social media and the 24-hour news cycle have amplified polarization and extremism, making it harder for the “silent majority” to get heard.
• Adam reveals his journey from a liberal campaign organizer to an independent, pro-Second Amendment and free speech advocate.
• Validation and critical thinking are essential—don’t take any public demonstration at face value, and always ask: “Is someone trying to persuade me or just create noise?”

Adam Swart

CEO, Crowds on Demand

Website: CrowdsOnDemand.com

Twitter/X: @CEOAdamSwart

Adam is the founder and CEO of Crowds on Demand, the pioneering publicity firm that provides paid crowds, orchestrated demonstrations, and out-of-the-box PR events for political, corporate, and private clients nationwide. With a background in political campaigns and media strategy, Adam offers firsthand knowledge of the intersection between activism, PR, and the modern media landscape.

Crowds on Demand, Paid political demonstrations, Adam Swart interview, Second Amendment rights, Gun rights activism, Political protests, Media manipulation, Freedom of speech, Cancel culture, Social media polarization, Guerilla marketing, Ethics of paid protests, Public perception, Grassroots campaigning, OFT firearms training, Second Amendment Foundation, Gun Experiment Podcast, Podcast about guns, Political influence, Parkland protest, NYU Palestine protest, Protest funding, Free speech advocate

Let us know what you think about the episode, and join the discussion with us on Instagram, Twitter, Discord, or Spotify!

"Just because you can, doesn’t always mean you should."

Episode Summary

In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we’re chopping it up in Studio with our good friend and firearms instructor, Sean Martin, aka Pink Shirt Tactical. Big Keith and I dive into gun news, hot takes, and personal stories about hunting, fitness, current political drama, and of course, plenty of Second Amendment talk. We touch on recent matches like the Hero Down Shootout, discuss firearm law updates (like Hawaii’s Vampire Rule and the P320 issue in Chicago), and share some hilarious community stories—from kid obsessions with town councilmen to belt buckles for F-150 key fobs. We debate open carry “auditors,” government accountability, and even take a swipe at media soundbites. This episode’s a mix of laughs, strong opinions, and actionable insights for anyone who carries or is passionate about gun rights and personal responsibility.

Call to Action

1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com

2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook

4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!

5. Grab some cool TGE merch

6. Ask us anything at [email protected]

5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.

Show Sponsors

• Swig – Protein, Creatine and meal replacement made in America by pro-2A owners. For 20% off, head to swig.com and enter code TGE20 at checkout.

Key Takeaways

• Staying fit and healthy is just as important as responsible gun ownership.
• The firearms community needs to use good judgment—just because open-carry activism is legal doesn’t mean it’s always smart.
• Court decisions (like Hawaii’s Vampire Rule and the P320 recall in Chicago) are reshaping our rights—stay informed.
• Community involvement, whether with local elections or supporting pro-2A organizations, makes a difference.
• Don’t trust everything mainstream media says—question, verify, and use your own judgment.
• Fun and function can go together—even if you’re rocking a belt buckle for your F-150 keys.

Guest Information

Sean Martin (aka Pink Shirt Tactical)

Firearms instructor, competitor, and regular contributor to The Gun Experiment. Connect with him on Instagram.

Keywords

gun rights podcast, Second Amendment, firearms news, open carry debate, P320 recall, gun laws Hawaii, Hero Down Shootout, gun fitness, Swig protein, political accountability, Letitia James mortgage fraud, gun training, self-defense, Pink Shirt Tactical, gun community, concealed carry, press check segment, back again hot takes, veteran shooting charity, US court gun cases

Thanks for listening, and remember—your Second Amendment rights are stronger when you get involved.

"Embrace the experience—whether you hunt for the harvest or the camaraderie, time in the outdoors is always well spent."

Episode Summary

In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with Mike Tussey, Director of Marketing for Nomad Outdoors and owner of Osceola Outdoors, to talk all things hunting, gear, and Whitetail season readiness. We kick off with some listener feedback on the Cracker Barrel and then dive into the a controversial turkey hunting incident that went viral. Mike Tussey takes us through his journey from longtime educator to prominent figure in the outdoor industry, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from guiding everything from turkey hunts to alligator adventures. We unpack new product launches from Nomad, their evolving brand story, and get expert tips on choosing the right hunting apparel for all seasons. From the importance of camaraderie at hunt camp to the rituals that get us amped for deer season, this episode is packed with laughs, practical advice, and plenty of inspiration for both seasoned hunters and newcomers.

Call to Action

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2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

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4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!

5. Grab some cool TGE merch

6. Ask us anything at [email protected]

5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.

Show Sponsors

A huge thank you to Onsite Firearms Training for supporting the show. If you're looking to sharpen your skills—pistol, rifle, or medical—find a class near you at oftllc.us. They offer no-ego, professional training for everyday shooters. Get safer, sharper, and smarter behind the gun!

Key Takeaways

• The difference between someone who hunts and a true hunter comes down to passion, patience, and the love of nature—not just the harvest.
• Nomad Outdoors is revamping classic hunting gear with modern fabrics and patterns for every season, including their new Rub Line Collection and exclusive Mossy Oak New Breakup camo.
• Trail cameras and gear organization rituals help us gear up mentally and physically for hunting season.
• The importance of introducing young hunters to the tradition—and how quality gear can help get them hooked.
• Stories from the field, like guiding Don Jr. on a turkey hunt and dealing with unexpected “adventures” from clients, remind us that hunting is as much about the stories as the trophies.
• When hunting in changing climates, layering with quality base layers (like merino wool) and the right outerwear is absolutely essential for comfort and success.
• Mike Tussey’s top gear pick: don’t head into turkey season without a poncho, and never underestimate the power of great base layers in the cold.

Guest Information

Mike Tussey is the owner of Osceola Outdoors, guiding hunts for turkeys, hogs, ducks, and gators in Florida, and is the Director of Marketing for Nomad Outdoors.

• Website: Nomad Outdoors
• Social: @nomadoutdoor (Instagram & Facebook)
• Osceola Outdoors: osceolaoutdoors.com

Keywords

Hunting apparel, Nomad Outdoors, Mike Tussey, Osceola Outdoors, hunting gear, Whitetail season, turkey hunting, Mossy Oak, Rub Line Collection, hunting tips, outdoor industry, Onsite Firearms Training, base layers, camouflage, deer hunting rituals, trail cameras, hunting stories, youth hunting, marketing director, gun safety, Cracker Barrel pancakes, hunting camaraderie, outdoor podcast, run and gun segment, gun experiment podcast.

Ready to gear up for the season or just want a few hunting laughs? Tune in and join us on The Gun Experiment!

In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we, sit down with our local town councilman and longtime friend, Paul Ruggerio. We kick things off with an open conversation about local politics, community development, and the impact of gun legislation in New York.

Paul pulls back the curtain on what it’s really like running for office during an election cycle, the nitty-gritty of zoning laws, the challenges of keeping small-town Main Street USA alive, and how warehouses affect property taxes and local economics. We discuss community participation in government, how to address local issues, and the role of responsible firearm ownership in our town.

The discussion takes a candid turn into the Second Amendment, where Paul shares both his personal history as a gun owner and his stance on New York’s evolving firearms laws. We also touch on the latest gun news, like open carry legislation in Florida, the surprising move by Everytown to teach gun safety, and recent victories for gun rights in Texas post offices.

As always, we sprinkle in some light-hearted moments, talk about technology and aftermarket car mods, and round out the show with hot takes on current political debates, government budgets, and the wild world of military drones.

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5. Grab some cool TGE merch

6. Ask us anything at [email protected]

5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.

• Onsite Firearms Training (OFT): For skill-building classes that boost your confidence, head to OFTLLC.us
• Ammo Squared: The hassle-free way to consistently build your ammo supply—sign up at ammosquared.com and mention The Gun Experiment for bonus rounds!

• Community Engagement Matters: Local government is about serving citizens—reach out directly to your council members to get things done in your town.
• Zoning Laws Shape Your Town: Decisions made years ago impact what kinds of businesses (or warehouses) can operate locally; changing that takes time and citizen involvement.
• Responsible Gun Ownership: Training and education are universal values—good training boosts confidence for all gun owners.
• Second Amendment Rights: Even local politicians face challenges in changing state laws, but supporting candidates who respect your rights is crucial.
• Economic Development: Bringing Main Street USA energy back requires vision, creativity, and sometimes redefining what downtown means for your community.
• Gun Rights News: Wins like the Texas post office gun-carry case and the open carry bill in Florida show positive momentum.
• Staying Informed: Whether it’s politics, tech, or local events, staying engaged and informed helps you advocate for what matters most to you.

Paul Ruggerio

• Town Councilman, Town of Newburgh, NY
• Local business owner for 35 years
• Fiscally responsible leader with a proven track record
• Dedicated to serving the community, improving town infrastructure, and protecting residents’ interests

gun rights, Second Amendment, Paul Ruggierio, Newburgh politics, local government, firearm training, community development, New York gun laws, open carry, warehouse zoning, property taxes, Ammo Squared, Onsite Firearms Training, Second Amendment Foundation, Main Street USA, town council, concealed carry, gun news, Everytown, post office gun case, New York infrastructure, responsible gun ownership, small town economics

Let us know what you think of this episode and who you want to hear next!

In this episode, we reconnect with Tom Kubiniec, CEO of SecureIt, for an engaging conversation that spans gun safety, the realities of modern gun ownership, responsible storage, and Tom’s thrilling adventures at the Bonneville Salt Flats. We tackle the intersection of pharmaceuticals and mass shootings, gun politics, and how Tom’s unique approaches to business and fatherhood shape the SecureIt brand. We also go hands-on with the SecureIt Fast Box 20 Pro, explore the concept of decentralized firearm storage, and discuss tips for teaching kids about firearm safety at home. Lastly, we break down current firearm legislation news, high-speed drone threats, and other headlines from the shooting world.

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6. Ask us anything at [email protected]

5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They're the ones who make the show possible.

• MGS Trade School: Break into the firearms industry as a gunsmith —learn at your pace and change your career with MGS.
• Ammo Squared: Your digital ammo bank! Set your monthly budget, select calibers, and let Ammo Squared grow your supply. Mention you heard about them on The Gun Experiment!

• Responsible Gun Storage: Tom emphasizes decentralizing storage, silent locks, and ease of access for daily carry—but always secured from unauthorized hands.
• Family Firearm Safety: Demystifying guns for children is key—education and transparency reduce curiosity, making firearms less attractive to young hands.
• The Bonneville Salt Flats: Tom and his son set a world speed record for 750cc cars and share a unique father-son bonding experience, highlighting chasing passion together.
• Medication & Mass Shootings: Tom discusses his research on mass shootings, connecting SSRIs and psychotropic drugs with youth shooters—a controversial but rarely discussed link.
• Industry Innovation: Products like the Fast Box 20 Pro and Ammo Squared revolutionize how we store and accumulate ammunition, shifting attitudes toward long-term preparedness.
• Legislative Updates: We break down current legal challenges to the AR-15 and NFA regulations, and cover DOJ and Supreme Court actions on major firearm regulation cases.
• Gun Dealer Ethics: Store owners play a vital but limited role in preventing gun crimes—they must balance caution, intuition, and the realities of legal gun sales.

Tom Kubiniec

• CEO, SecureIt Gun Storage
• Racing enthusiast, innovator, and firearms industry leader
• Advocate for responsible gun storage and education
• Learn more: secureitgunstorage.com

Gun safety, Firearm storage, SecureIt gun safes, Decentralized firearm security,

Bonneville Salt Flats racing, Family gun education, Mass shooting medication connection,

Gun legislation updates, Ammo Squared review, MGS Trade School, Firearms industry career, Responsible gun ownership, AR-15 ban, DOJ firearm policy, Child gun safety, Ethical gun dealers, Fast Box 20 Pro review, Home defense storage, Gun experiment podcast

Episode Summary

Hey everyone—Mike here, alongside my co-host Big Keith! In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we faced a podcasting curveball: our scheduled guest ghosted us…for the second week in a row. Instead of letting it get us down, we embraced the theme and delivered a raw, gear-focused conversation between the two of us. We took a deep dive into plate carrier setups, home defensive mindset, rimfire PRS shooting, and the challenges and rewards in our ongoing firearms training journey.

Join us as we break down the pros and cons of different armor systems, dig into practical range drills that help sharpen your skills (even with just 50 rounds), and talk about family range days and training consistency. Whether you’re new to plate carriers, curious about competitive rimfire shooting, or just want to hear some honest takeaways from our real-world training experiences, this episode’s for you!

Call to Action

1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com

2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook

4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!

5. Grab some cool TGE merch

6. Ask us anything at [email protected]

7. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.

Show Sponsors

• Spartan Armor Systems: American-made, battle-ready body armor for real-world protection. Check them out at spartanarmorsystems.com.
• On Site Firearms Training (OFT): Realistic firearms training for all skill levels in the Hudson Valley and beyond. Check out classes at oftllc.us.

Key Takeaways

• Sometimes guests ghost you, but showing up and adapting is part of the journey—in the studio and on the range.
• Plate carrier setup doesn't have to break the bank. Focus on real-world application, gradual upgrades, and knowing your own needs.
• Training with purpose: even a 50-round range session can be highly productive if you focus on drills—speed, accuracy, movement, strong/support hand, and note-taking.
• Having a ritual before you shoot (stance, grip, mindset) is huge for consistency and skill transfer.
• Finding the right training cadence—like weekly or bi-weekly range sessions—accelerates progress more than high round counts alone.
• Honest conversations between buddies sometimes deliver the most relatable firearms insights.
• Even if you’re not a competition shooter, learning from those environments (like PRS rimfire stages) sharpens your own skillset.
• Family range days can get everyone involved and help reinforce safe, responsible gun ownership.

Guest Information

This episode did not feature a scheduled guest because, well, they ghosted us! But you still got Mike and Big Keith—your trusted hosts—bringing experience, humor, and no-nonsense gun talk.

Keywords

gun podcast, The Gun Experiment, firearms training, plate carrier setup, Spartan Armor, home defense, rimfire PRS, practical drills, shooting accuracy, training consistency, range day, On Site Firearms Training, OFT LLC, body armor, Second Amendment, gun gear reviews, pistol training, family shooting, shooting ritual, podcasting, training tips, competitive shooting, 22 caliber, American made, home protection, concealed carry training

Missed an episode? Subscribe now and leave us a review—it means the world to us!

Episode Summary

In this episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and I are joined by Matt Riker, CEO of Kings River Custom, for a raw, wide-ranging discussion on unity, division, and the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk right before the anniversary of 9/11. We don’t shy away from the tough feelings, the media’s role in fueling division, and the hard questions about political extremism, violence, and what unites (and divides) America.

We also dive into other topics to bring levity and balance—touching on recent positive 2A news out of Florida, wild stories about electric cars, military tech like the Navy’s Phalanx system, and a couple of wild news headlines that’ll make you laugh. There’s never a dull moment when Matt joins us, and we hope you’ll join the conversation.

Call to Action

1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com

2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

3. Follow us on all of our social media: InstagramTwitterYoutubeFacebook

4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!

5. Grab some cool TGE merch

6. Ask us anything at [email protected]

5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.

Show Sponsors

• Modern Gun Trade School: Your pathway to a professional career in the firearms industry. Let them know you heard about them on The Gun Experiment.
• Flatline Fiberco: Creator of amazing soft goods for the shooting community. Be sure to check out their new Qela sling; get 10% off your purchase with code TGE10

Key Takeaways

• The episode is framed by national tragedy and reflection on unity the day after Charlie Kirk’s assassination and September 11th
• Matt Riker shares his perspective on Charlie Kirk’s respectful, impactful manner in the current political climate
• We debate how the media, social media, and political echo chambers shape division and misunderstanding in America
• The difference in public response to violence against public figures, and how partisan reactions differ
• The importance of personal responsibility, training, and education in the firearms community (including lockbox discussion)
• Positive news: Florida’s 2A tax holiday shows there’s good going on for gun rights, too
• Other lighter topics covered include: MMA in the workplace, the absurdity of electric car “loud exhaust” tickets, Navy battle tech upgrades, and crazy news stories about hiking mishaps and custom-made babies

Guest Information

Matt Riker – CEO, Kings River Custom

Matt brings expert knowledge on custom 1911s, powerful opinions on current events, and personal reflections on how influential figures change lives. He’s a regular guest and friend of the show, known for his down-to-earth wisdom and insights from both the firearms industry and real life.

Learn more at KingsRiverCustom.com

Keywords

The Gun Experiment, Matt Riker, Kings River Custom, custom 1911s, Charlie Kirk, assassination, September 11th, media bias, political violence, unity, division in America, gun rights, 2nd Amendment, Florida 2A tax holiday, positive gun news, MMA in the workplace, military technology, Navy Phalanx, electric cars, social media influence, firearms safety, American politics, Turning Point, personal responsibility, current events, stoicism, political discourse, gun podcast, conservative podcast

Thanks for chopping it up with us this week. If this episode sparked a thought, tell us your take—let’s keep this conversation going.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Big Keith and I sit down in the studio with Mitch Eckler, the mastermind behind Hangfire TV and a prolific contributor to Athlon Outdoors. We get into the nitty gritty of content creation in the firearms world, tackling everything from overcoming social media algorithm hurdles to the impact of AI on writing and photography, and why building a genuine voice matters more than ever. Mitch shares his journey from music to guns, his take on revolvers and 1911s, and the realities of trying to make it behind enemy lines here in New York. We also dive into advocacy, staying motivated despite challenges, and tips for anyone wanting to get involved in the 2A community.

Call to Action

1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com

2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook

4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!

5. Grab some cool TGE merch

6. Ask us anything at [email protected]

5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.

Show Sponsors

• Modern Gun Trade School: Turn your passion for firearms into a career with hands-on, at-your-own-pace online gunsmithing courses. Visit mgs.edu or call 1-800-493-4114—tell them The Gun Experiment sent you!
• Spartan Armor Systems: Stay ready and protected with premier, made-in-the-USA body armor. Visit spartanarmorsystems.com for civilian and professional defensive gear.

Key Takeaways

• Persistence and authenticity are key to success in firearms content creation.
• Building a portfolio (even starting a YouTube channel) can open doors in the industry.
• AI and large language models (LLMs) are here to stay; use them to bolster your writing, but don’t lose your unique voice.
• Social media platforms can be tough for gun content—follow the rules, create original photos, and stay “middle of the road.”
• New York gun owners face unique challenges, but local and national organizations work behind the scenes to protect 2A rights. Donating to any is better than none!
• The importance of supporting local gun shops and continuing your firearms education.
• Authenticity in content—whether written, photographed, or filmed—will always stand out, no matter how advanced technology becomes.
• Getting started is about doing the hard work first and being willing to take risks and show up, even when it’s tough.

Guest Information

• Mitch Eckler
• Host & Creator of Hangfire TV (YouTube)
• Contributing author at Athlon Outdoors (Read Mitch's work here)
• Instagram: @thebadgunsmith
• Focus: Real-world firearms education, product reviews, and 2A advocacy

Keywords firearms podcast, gun industry, 2A content creator, gun rights advocacy, Mitch Eckler, Hangfire TV, Athlon Outdoors, SUNY Oneonta, AI in writing, gun marketing, YouTube firearms content, gun community New York, Second Amendment, concealed carry tips, social media gun censorship, Spartan Armor, Modern Gun Trade School, firearms training, gun merch, best revolvers, New York gun laws, content creation tips, firearm photography, writing with AI

For more, be sure to check the links in our show notes or connect with us across social media! Thanks for tuning in to The Gun Experiment!

“Medical training may not be as sexy as buying a new gun, but saving a life makes you a true hero.”

Episode Summary

In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we “chop it up” with Kerry “Pocket Doc” Davis, former Air Force flight medic and owner of Dark Angel Medical. Mike and Big Keith dive into the vital importance of medical training within the 2A and preparedness community, sharing real stories of why it should matter just as much as those new firearm purchases. We touch on practical training advice, everyday carry kit suggestions, balancing firearms and medical skills, and even squeeze in lighthearted fun—from the best way to drink a Manhattan to a bear with a serious strawberry ice cream craving. Plus, we break down current news: big Second Amendment wins, ongoing sins in the regulatory world, and a viral resignation letter trend that will have you asking, “What would I temporarily quit my husbandly duties for?”

Call to Action

1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com

2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

3. Follow us on all of our social media: InstagramTwitterYoutubeFacebook

4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!

5. Grab some cool TGE merch

6. Ask us anything at [email protected]

5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.

Show Sponsors

• Swig.com: Delicious, well-balanced meal replacements and nutritional products. Get 20% off your order with code TGE20.
• Modern Gun Trade School: Your pathway to a professional career in the firearms industry. Let them know you heard about them on The Gun Experiment.

Key Takeaways

• Medical training is just as important as firearms training—being able to save a life could make you the real hero in any emergency.
• Shooting skills, like medical skills, are perishable—refresh and retrain often.
• Good kit habits: Carry an IFAC in your car, on your belt, and at home (right next to your fire extinguisher!).
• Online training options and free resources can make life-saving knowledge more accessible than ever.
• Trends in the gun world and weird news (butt sniffers, anyone?) keep us on our toes and laughing.
• Second Amendment updates: Major progress for medical marijuana users’ gun rights and positive shifts in certain city firearm regulations.
• Don’t let media hype direct your outrage—save your energy for the fights that really matter.

Guest Information

Kerry “Pocket Doc” Davis

• Former US Air Force flight medic
• Owner/founder of Dark Angel Medical
• Expert in trauma care, emergency medicine, and citizen self-reliance
• Find classes, kits, and free med resources at DarkAngelMedical.com

Keywords

Kerry Davis, Dark Angel Medical, The Gun Experiment, medical training, trauma kit, IFAC, 2A community, emergency preparedness, concealed carry, gun rights, firearms training, Second Amendment, modern gun trade school, Swig nutrition, online medical training, law enforcement, concealed carry laws, NYPD, ATF, ghost guns, gun news, medical marijuana gun rights, personal safety, podcast show notes, episode summary, self-defense, husband resignation letter, Manhattan cocktail, preparedness skills

Whether you’re in it for the laughs, the learning, or life-saving info, thanks for tuning in—stay safe, stay sharp, and carry medical!

"When you are struggling to take action, break big goals into small, actionable steps.

Persistence isn’t about giant leaps, but about steady, continual progress—however small."

In this episode, Big Keith and I welcomed Conor Donahue, a former Navy SEAL and CEO/co-founder of Ace Virtual Shooting, to The Gun Experiment. We dove into Conor’s transition from military service to the tech-entrepreneurial world, exploring how his experiences shaped both his character and the innovative product he's helping bring to the firearm training community. Conor shared personal insights into the importance of mentorship, faith, adaptability, teamwork, and the drive behind Ace XR’s industry-leading virtual reality shooting simulator.

We discussed the benefits and practicalities of virtual gun training, the challenges (and surprising fun) of dry fire practice, and how community and technology are reshaping the shooting sports landscape. Plus, Conor joined us for a live review and behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing innovation happening at Ace Virtual Shooting—and yes, we also put him through our Run and Gun lightning round.

1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com

2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook

4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!

5. Grab some cool TGE merch

6. Ask us anything at [email protected]

5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They're a big part of making the show possible.

Special thanks to OnSite Firearms Training—our longest-standing sponsor. They bring world-class firearms instruction in a safe, challenging environment, with incredible guest instructors like Jared Reston. Whether you're new or seeking to perfect your skills, check them out!

Shout-out to Ace Virtual Shooting for providing us with cutting-edge gear and an immersive, fun, and skill-building training tool.

• Mentorship shapes our trajectory: Conor credits mentors from Scouting, the military, and his faith community for guiding his career and values.
• Faith and adversity build character: Hurdles in Conor’s youth and experience in the SEALs forged grit, humility, and perseverance.
• The transition from service to entrepreneurship isn’t always easy: Identity and purpose beyond the uniform are topics every veteran (and leader) faces.
• Adaptability and teamwork are as essential in business as in the Teams.
• Supplement, don’t substitute: Tools like Ace VR are powerful supplements but no replacement for live fire training.
• Community matters: The Ace XR platform isn’t just a training tool—it’s a supportive, competitive, and fun international community.
• User feedback drives innovation: Many of Ace's features and updates are directly from user suggestions—your voice is heard, and it shapes the product!

Conor Donahue

• Former United States Navy SEAL
• MBA: Stanford University
• Cofounder & CEO: Ace Virtual Shooting
• Connect on Instagram: @acevirtualshooting
• Join their Discord and Facebook groups for community discussion, Q&As, and product updates.

Navy SEAL, Conor Donahue, Ace Virtual Shooting, Ace XR, VR gun training, shooting simulator, virtual reality firearms training, dry fire practice, shooting community, firearms technology, shooting gear, competitive shooting, gun experiment podcast, gun training tools, firearms entrepreneur, gun safety, shooting innovation, supplemental firearms training, OnSite Firearms Training, shooting simulation, gun range alternative, shooting sports, shooter community, virtual competition, mental toughness, mentorship in military, firearms podcast, firearms industry, 2A community

I hope this episode inspires everyone to train more and helps connect everyone with a new passionate firearms community!