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In this powerhouse episode of the Tru2Shooters Podcast, hosts Tyler Wildman and Michael Fitzner sit down with none other than Todd Bender — one of the winningest skeet shooter in history, 27-time NSSA World Champion, and the first-ever NSSA Master Instructor. Recognized worldwide as the leading authority in shotgun instruction, Todd brings decades of championship experience and teaching wisdom to the conversation.

From his early training with England’s CPSA to coaching Olympic athletes and mentoring the next generation, Todd shares what it really takes to compete at the highest level. The guys dive into the mental side of skeet, the importance of fundamentals, and why coaching has become as rewarding to him as collecting championships.

🎯 What to Expect:
✔️ Lessons from Todd’s journey to 26 World Championships
✔️ How mental preparation separates winners from the rest
✔️ The evolution of skeet and its growing global community
✔️ Todd’s role as NSSA Master Instructor and mentor to champions
✔️ Tips for athletes at every level — from youth to seasoned competitors

Whether you’re stepping onto the field for your first registered shoot or chasing titles at the national level, this episode is packed with insight from one of the sport’s true legends.

Subscribe now, and follow @Tru2Shooters on Instagram and Facebook for more conversations that celebrate the athletes, coaches, and leaders shaping the clay target world. 🎙️🔥

#Tru2ShootersPodcast #ToddBender #SkeetShooting #ClayTargetNation #BreakClays #ShotgunSports #MindsetMatters

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In this hilarious and heartfelt episode of the Tru2Shooters Podcast, hosts Tyler Wildman and Michael Fitzner sit down with two of the sport’s most entertaining athletes — Steve “Woody” Wood and Dessislav “Dess” Ivanov. Shooting partners, travel buddies, and all-around crowd favorites, Woody and Dess share their journey from a small New York gun club to competing at the World Skeet Championships.

From Woody’s AA Doubles win and their epic road trip stories, to squad camaraderie, equipment choices, and even why pizza might be the ultimate skeet sponsor, this conversation has it all. Between the laughs, they also open up about respect on the field, the importance of having a strong squad, and the best advice they have for new and youth shooters.

🎯 What to Expect:
✔️ Woody’s World Skeet Championship highlights (and cereal out of trophies 🏆)
✔️ Dess’ Bulgarian roots, humor, and why having a good squadmate matters
✔️ The role of respect, sportsmanship, and fun in skeet shooting
✔️ Gear talk — Beretta, Krieghoff, Briley tubes, and more
✔️ Advice for youth: find a buddy, keep it fun, and just start shooting
✔️ Plenty of pizza, punchlines, and behind-the-scenes laughs 🍕😂

Subscribe now, and follow @Tru2Shooters on Instagram and Facebook for more conversations that bring out the heart (and humor) of the clay target world. 🎙️🔥

#Tru2ShootersPodcast #SkeetShooting #ClayTargetNation #BreakClays #PizzaAndPulls #SquadGoals

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In this powerful episode of the Tru2Shooters Podcast, hosts Tyler Wildman and Michael Fitzner sit down with Alessandro Vitale — Team Krieghoff Captain, NSSA/NSCA National Board Member, and founder of Highland Sporting Outfitters. From his start as a young hunter to developing his skills on the field and becoming a leader in the skeet shooting world to leading one of the top gun dealerships in the country, Alessandro shares his journey, his PASSION for the sport, and his MISSION to make skeet and sporting clays accessible, welcoming, and family-focused.

The conversation dives deep into the behind-the-scenes work of the NSSA and NSCA, the importance of mentorship and coaching, and the vision for growing the next generation of clay target athletes. Alessandro also opens up about why he started Highland Sporting Outfitters, how customer service sets them apart, and the lessons he’s passing down to his own son as he takes up the sport.

And to top it off — Tru2Shooters officially announces its new partnership with Highland Sporting Outfitters, giving listeners direct access to the best in guns, gear, and service. 🚀

🎯 What to Expect:
✔️ Alessandro’s journey from hunting to leading Team Krieghoff
✔️ The mission and community impact of NSSA & NSCA
✔️ Why every shoot-off matters — and how to learn from each one
✔️ How Highland Sporting Outfitters is changing the game with in-house service & support
✔️ The future of skeet & sporting clays in the next 5–10 years
✔️ Tru2Shooters’ exciting new partnership with Highland Sporting Outfitters

Subscribe now, and follow @Tru2Shooters on Instagram and Facebook for more conversations that celebrate the athletes, brands, and communities shaping the clay target world. 🎙️🔥

#Tru2ShootersPodcast #HighlandSportingOutfitters #Krieghoff #SkeetShooting #SportingClays #ClayTargetNation #BreakClays #YouthShooting

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In this special episode of the Tru2Shooters Podcast, hosts Tyler Wildman and Michael Fitzner take the mics for a full season recap. From blizzard-shortened early shoots in Michigan to major stops like the Triple J Classic, Krieghoff Masters, U.S. Open, SCTP Nationals, and Junior Worlds, the guys share their favorite stories, biggest challenges, and funniest memories from one of their busiest seasons yet!

They also open up about the lessons learned along the way — from battling monsoon rains at Mid-America, to chasing medals at Nationals, to the road trip adventures and blackjack tournaments at Junior Worlds.

Looking ahead, Tyler and Michael preview the rest of 2025, including the Kasle Family Shoot, Mini Worlds, and the NSSA World Championships in Texas — and what they’re most excited about as the season continues.

🎯 What to Expect:
✔️ Behind-the-scenes stories from this year’s biggest shoots
✔️ Lessons learned from both triumphs and struggles
✔️ Favorite memories from Junior Worlds and Nationals
✔️ What’s next on the 2025 calendar

Subscribe now, and follow @Tru2Shooters on Instagram and Facebook for more stories that celebrate the athletes, events, and memories shaping the clay target world. 🎙️🔥

#Tru2ShootersPodcast #ClayTargetNation #SkeetShooting #TrapShooting #SportingClays #YouthShooting

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🎙️ Tru2Shooters Podcast | Episode 13: “Healing Through the Hunt with Carson Nyenhuis from Hunt 2 Heal”

In this inspiring episode of the Tru2Shooters Podcast, we sit down with Carson Nyenhuis, founder of Hunt 2 Heal, to talk about breaking barriers in the outdoors and empowering individuals with disabilities to experience the healing power of nature. 🌲

Hosts Tyler Wildman and Michael Fitzner dive into the mission behind Hunt 2 Heal—providing fully accessible hunting and shooting opportunities, complete with adaptive equipment, specialized support, and a welcoming community. Carson shares his personal journey, the heart behind the organization, and the life-changing impact it has on participants and their families.

From adaptive gun stands to barrier-free blinds, this conversation shines a spotlight on what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Whether you’re a shooter, hunter, volunteer, or simply someone who believes in equal access to the outdoors—this is a can’t-miss episode.

💥 What to Expect:
✔️ The mission and story behind Hunt 2 Heal
✔️ How adaptive equipment makes shooting and hunting accessible
✔️ Stories of transformation and community from the field
✔️ How you can support Hunt 2 Heal’s mission

Learn more about Hunt2Heal by visiting their website at www.hunt2heal.com or by searching @Hunt2Heal on Instagram and Facebook

Subscribe now, and follow @Tru2Shooters on Instagram and Facebook for more conversations that celebrate the people shaping the clay target and hunting world. 🎙️🔥

#Tru2ShootersPodcast #Hunt2Heal #CarsonNyenhuis #AdaptiveSports #AccessibleOutdoors #ClayTargetNation #HuntingLife #BreakBarriers #SkeetShooting

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In this episode of the Tru2Shooters Podcast, we sit down with Connor Thigpen, the youngest shooter to ever win the NSSA Open World Skeet Championship, to talk about what it really takes to hit the top—and stay there. 💥

Hosts Tyler Wildman and Michael Fitzner catch up with Connor fresh off his NSSA Junior World wins in Waco, Texas. From early days in 4-H to breaking records on the world stage, Connor shares the highs, the hard work, and the hilarious moments that shaped his journey.

You’ll hear stories of mental discipline, midnight drive-thrus, fixing lawnmowers for gas money, and why your squad absolutely matters. We dive into the mindset behind greatness, his advice to up-and-comers, and why—even at the top—there’s always more to learn.

🎯 What to Expect:
✔️ How Connor made history at the NSSA World Championships
✔️ The mental side of skeet (and how to recover from a bad round)
✔️ Connor’s dream squad, gear picks & rituals
✔️ Real talk about pressure, patience, and perfection
✔️ Why starting young—and staying humble—matters

This episode is packed with insight, grit, and a whole lot of heart. Whether you’re a junior shooter, coach, or just love the game, you’ll walk away inspired.

👉 Subscribe now, and follow @Tru2Shooters on Instagram and Facebook to stay locked in on the latest from the line.

#Tru2ShootersPodcast #ConnorThigpen #YoungChampion #NSSAWorldChamp #SkeetShooting #ClayTargetNation #YouthShooting #BreakClays #MentalToughness

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In this episode of the Tru2Shooters Podcast, we go behind the scenes of one of the most impactful youth shooting programs in the country—the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP)—with National Director Wayne Rasmussen. 💬🔥

Recorded live at SCTP Nationals at the Cardinal Center, hosts Tyler Wildman and Michael Fitzner sit down with Wayne to talk about the real impact SCTP has on athletes, families, and the future of clay target sports. From mental toughness and mentorship to safety and character development, this episode dives into the heart of what makes SCTP more than just a competition—it’s a movement.

🎯 What to Expect:
✔️ How Wayne went from SCTP parent to national director
✔️ What makes SCTP one of the safest and most respected youth sports
✔️ The role of mentorship and teamwork in athlete development
✔️ Why coaching, volunteering & giving back matter more than ever
✔️ How to start or join an SCTP team near you

Whether you’re a parent, coach, or athlete—this is a must-listen conversation on growing the sport, building strong teams, and why youth clay target shooting is truly a family affair.

Subscribe now and follow @Tru2Shooters on Instagram and Facebook to stay locked in on all things clay target sports. 🎙️💥

#Tru2ShootersPodcast #SCTP #YouthShootingSports #ShotgunLife #ClayTargetNation #BreakClays #MentalToughness #StartATeam #WayneRasmussen

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In this powerful episode of the Tru2Shooters Podcast, hosts Tyler Wildman and Michael Fitzner sit down with Pete Eisentrager, Executive Director and Zach Abbott, Marketing Specialist, both from the MidwayUSA Foundation to talk about building long-term sustainability for youth shooting sports. 💥

Recorded live at the SCTP Nationals at the Cardinal Center, this episode dives deep into how the MidwayUSA Foundation is creating real, lasting impact through endowment funding, product grants, range development, and unmatched support for youth teams across the country.

Whether you're a coach, athlete, parent, or shooting sports supporter, this episode is packed with vital info on how to keep our sport alive and growing—from fundraising strategies to powerful stories of grassroots impact. This is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the future of youth shooting.

🎯 What to Expect:
✔️ How endowments help youth teams thrive
✔️ Why the MidwayUSA Foundation model is different
✔️ Matching funds, grant programs & range upgrades
✔️ The impact of marketing & youth involvement
✔️ Simple steps to start or grow your own team’s endowment

💡 Pro tip: If your team doesn’t already have an endowment…this episode will show you exactly how to get one—and why you shouldn’t wait.

Subscribe for future episodes, and follow @Tru2Shooters on Instagram and Facebook for bonus content from the range! 🎙️🔥

#Tru2ShootersPodcast #MidwayUSAFoundation #YouthShooting #SCTP #ClayTargetNation #TeamEndowment #FundYouthShooting #FundingtheFuture #FundingAmericasYouthhShootingTeams

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In this episode of the Tru2Shooters Podcast, we’re sitting down with World Skeet Champion Bruce Christian to talk about championship shooting, precision target setting, and the transformation of St. Joe Valley Conservation Club into one of the most beautiful clubs in the country—all powered by volunteers. 💪

Hosts Tyler Wildman and Michael Fitzner dig into Bruce’s journey from trap fields to skeet fame, the mindset behind breaking targets when everything goes wrong, and the life lessons the sport has taught him along the way.

💥 What to Expect:
 ✔️ The story behind Bruce’s 28-Gauge World Championship
 ✔️ How St. Joe became a world-class club (and why the grass matters!)
 ✔️ Honest advice for new and youth shooters
 ✔️ Tips on target setting, pressure shooting, and staying grounded

Hit subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes, and follow @Tru2Shooters on Instagram and Facebook for more content from the world of clay target sports! 🔥

#Tru2ShootersPodcast #SkeetShooting #WorldChampion #StJoeValley #ClayTargetSports #TargetSetting #ShotgunLife #28GaugeLegend #YouthShooting #GrassGoals

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🎯 Tru2Shooters Podcast | Episode 8: Breaking Clays & Building Legacy with Amber Brown

In this episode of the Tru2Shooters Podcast, we’re sitting down with Amber Brown, competitive sporting clays athlete, coach, and member of the Michigan Sporting Clays Association board. From youth SCTP days to shooting alongside her dad as “Team Brown,” Amber’s journey is all about grit, growth, and giving back. 💪🔥

Hosts Tyler Wildman and Michael Fitzner talk with Amber about her personal path in the clay target world, how her dad helped launch her career (and still competes by her side), and how she’s working to bridge the gap between SCTP and NSCA events for the next generation. She also opens up about the nerves, mental battles, and breakthrough moments on the super squad at Nationals — and why coaching other women and youth shooters has become a true calling.

If you're a competitive shooter, a parent in the game, or someone passionate about the future of sporting clays, this episode hits everything from gear talk to grassroots impact.

💥 What to Expect:

✔️ Amber’s journey from SCTP to Team USA contender
✔️ The power of shooting side-by-side with her dad
✔️ Why she joined the MSCI board and what’s next for youth outreach
✔️ Mental toughness under pressure (and lessons from the Super Squad)
✔️ Her growing coaching business and the aha moments that keep her going

Hit subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes, and follow @Tru2Shooters on Instagram and Facebook for more content, athlete stories, and tips from the clay target world! 💪

#Tru2ShootersPodcast #SportingClays #SCTP #NSCA #WomenWhoShoot #TeamBrown #ClayTarget #YouthShootingSports #MentalGame #CoachLife

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