Defenders LIVE Podcast

Many want a warrior mindset. Very few are willing to live it.And even fewer understand what freedom actually costs.This conversation with Navy SEAL Chris Wyllie connects both.Inside this episode:* What a warrior mindset really looks like in daily life* Why discipline matters more than motivation* The internal fight most people avoid* The true cost of freedom most never see* How responsibility changes the way you liveDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts k, consider becoming a free subscriber. To join our exclusive group calls, become a paid subscriber.In this conversation, retired Navy SEAL Chris Wyllie breaks down both through lived experience. From the discipline required to stay ready every day to the internal battle most people avoid, this episode challenges you to look at your mindset, your responsibility, and how you show up in your own life.But it doesn’t stop there.Through powerful stories from the Navy SEAL Museum and the legacy of Lt. Michael Murphy, Chris reveals the reality behind the phrase “freedom isn’t free.” This is not an abstract idea. It is sacrifice. It is loss. It is real people with real families.Tune in if you want to build strength, live with purpose, and truly understand what’s been sacrificed for you to live freely.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

In this conversation with Mark Lamb, we go beyond politics and into the heart of what it means to live with courage, conviction, and faith.Here’s what you’ll take away:• Why comfort is the fastest way to bury your potential• How truth and authenticity build real leadership• What courage actually looks like in everyday life• How to move forward even after deep personal loss• Why chasing greatness requires risk, faith, and actionThis isn’t surface-level motivation.This is a call to step up.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this powerful and deeply grounded conversation, Lora Thorson sits down with former sheriff and congressional candidate Mark Lamb to unpack what it really means to live with courage, conviction, and faith in today’s world.From his journey into law enforcement later in life to leading on the front lines of border security, Mark shares the mindset that shaped his leadership… one rooted in authenticity, truth, and unwavering belief in God’s purpose. But this conversation goes deeper than titles and positions. It explores personal loss, the weight of responsibility, and the internal battles that define who we become.Mark opens up about why most people settle for “good” instead of pursuing greatness, the importance of telling the truth even when it costs you, and what it means to run toward danger instead of away from it. This episode is a call to examine your own life… your comfort zones, your courage, and the opportunities you may be avoiding.If you’ve ever felt the pull to step into something bigger, this conversation will challenge you to listen closely.Firearms Legal Protection: https://www.defenders-usa.com/flpThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Most women aren’t failing their health… They were never given the right playbook.This conversation with Allison Tharp will challenge everything you thought you knew about health, fitness, and what it really means to take care of your body.You’ll learn:* Why “eat less, move more” is failing women* How hormones impact everything from fat loss to energy* The connection between health, identity, and self-worth* Why community is critical for long-term resilience* How to take ownership of your health for yourself and your familyThis is about more than fitness.It’s about living strong, thinking clearly, and showing up with purpose.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this powerful conversation, Lora sits down with Allison Tharp, health educator and Director of the Mississippi Diabetes Network, to unpack the truth about women’s health, hormones, and why so many are struggling in systems that were never built for them. Allison shares her deeply personal journey — from battling weight and unhealthy habits to rebuilding her life through faith, discipline, and purpose.This episode goes beyond surface-level fitness advice. It challenges the “move more, eat less” mindset, exposes the flaws in modern health systems, and calls women to take ownership of their bodies with wisdom and resilience. From metabolic health to identity, from community to courage… this is a conversation about playing the long game and living with intention.If you’ve ever felt stuck, frustrated, or misunderstood in your health journey… this is for you.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Ever felt like your soul was just… tired?In this episode, I share a season that brought me to my knees—and what God did through it.What you’ll take away:• How to navigate emotional and spiritual burnout• Why resistance keeps you stuck—and surrender sets you free• The power of being honest about where you really are• How to walk through darkness without losing faith• Why your strengths can become weaknesses without balanceDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this deeply personal solo episode of Defenders LIVE, Lora Thorson opens up about a six-month season that tested her emotionally, spiritually, and physically. From the high of competing in The Tactical Games to a period of unexpected darkness and exhaustion, this is a raw conversation about what it looks like to wrestle with faith, identity, and surrender in real time.Lora shares the turning point—when resistance gave way to honesty, and honesty led to healing. From confronting hidden struggles, to rediscovering purpose, to learning how even our strengths can become weaknesses without balance, this episode is a powerful reminder that growth doesn’t happen in comfort. If you’ve ever felt stuck, tired in your soul, or unsure of your next step, this conversation will meet you right where you are.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Fear isn’t always loud. Sometimes it looks like hesitation, self-doubt, or staying stuck.In this conversation with Gabby Franco, we talk about what it really takes to grow under pressure and lead with courage.* How fear quietly keeps people from progressing* Why mindset training matters just as much as physical skill* What Venezuela taught Gabby about freedom and responsibility* How parents, protectors, and leaders can build stronger minds* Why awareness is often the first step toward real confidenceThis is a grounded, honest conversation about courage, growth, and learning to get out of your own way.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.What happens when an Olympian, immigrant, firearms instructor, and mental performance coach sits down to talk about fear, freedom, and what really holds people back? In this powerful Defenders LIVE conversation, Lora Thorson welcomes Gabby Franco back to the show for a deep and honest discussion on mindset, resilience, and the inner barriers that keep people from becoming more confident and capable in life.Gabby shares how her journey from Venezuela to the Olympic stage shaped her view of freedom, personal responsibility, and courage under pressure. She opens up about earning her degree in psychology, pursuing advanced work in sports and performance psychology, and why mental training matters just as much as technical skill. From coaching shooters and law enforcement to helping people uncover the fear behind hesitation, Gabby brings practical wisdom with real heart. This episode is a strong reminder that growth begins with awareness, truth, and the willingness to do the hard work from the inside out.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Some men don’t just “retire”… they reinvent.Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Sean Keene joins me to talk about what happens when you leave Special Operations and have to rebuild identity, purpose, and standards in the civilian world.What you’ll gain from this episode:* Why the 80% rule is the key to action when you don’t have perfect information* How to recover from failure without living in shame* What it means to know your triggers and lead yourself with discipline* Why standards matter and why “common sense” isn’t always common* How Sean went from elite missions… to mastering mezcal in OaxacaDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Sean Keene spent more than three decades in Special Operations, serving across Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Central Africa, and Central/South America, and leading at the highest levels when the stakes were real and the margin for error was thin. But this conversation isn’t just about what he did in uniform… it’s about who you become when that chapter ends and you’re forced to redefine yourself without the mission, the rank, or the team structure you once lived by.Sean opens up about the mindset that carried him through selection, injuries, and “never to return” failure then into an entirely new world as an apprentice mezcalero and founder of O’Kahan Agave. We talk about the 80% rule, emotionless correction, knowing your triggers, and why “common sense” in Special Operations doesn’t always translate in the civilian world. If you’re navigating change, chasing mastery, or learning to lead yourself when life doesn’t come with a perfect plan—this one will challenge you in the best way.Military Abbreviated Bio:Sean Keane is a retired Command Sergeant Major (CSM) with over 30 years of experience in the US Army Special Operations/Special Forces. Sean joined the FLARNG in April of 1990 as a Rep-63 and is one of the youngest Soldiers to complete the Special Forces Assessment and Selection and the Special Forces Qualification Course. Pre 9/11, Sean attended the Special Forces Underwater Operations Course, US Army Ranger School, conduct multiple Foreign Internal Defense (FID) operations through Central/South America, assigned to the Pentagon working directly for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and JSOC OPCEN and conducted another short tour as a guest Ranger Instructor for Phase 1 of the US Army Ranger School. CSM Keane has held the positions of Junior and Senior Weapons Sergeant and Team Sergeant on Special Forces Underwater Operations ODAs, Battalion Dive Officer, Special Forces Company SGM, AOB 2310 SGM, AOB CENTAM/SOCSOUTH SGM, Battalion CSM, Combating Transnational Organized Crime Task Force CSM/Senior Enlisted Leader, Special Operations Detachment-Central CSM, and most recently Special Operations Joint Task Force-Iraq/Syria Deputy Commanding General Senior Enlisted Leader/Special Operations Advisory Group SEL overseeing 2000 US and Coalition Special Operations Elements. CSM Keane conducted his first combat rotation into Afghanistan in 2003. Since then Sean has conducted multiple rotations to Afghanistan, Iraq/Syria, Central Africa and Central/South America. On his last rotation with the Special Operations Joint Task Force, CSM Keane found himself in the middle of the attack on the US Embassy Baghdad, the hasty EXFIL of the US Ambassador and all personnel, elimination of an Iranian General and the Iranian Ballistic Missile attack.More about O’Kahan Agave: https://okahanagave.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/okahanagaveInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/okahanagaveYoutube: http://www.youtube.com/@OKahanAgaveReference video from interview: The Power of Why - Simon Sinek Ted TalkWatch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

If you’re still trusting “the system” to keep you safe… this episode is a wake-up call.In this Defenders LIVE conversation, John Hearne breaks down what most people never hear because it’s not comfortable, and it’s not popular… but it’s real.You’ll learn:* Why crime data can be misleading (and what that means for your decisions)* How criminals choose targets in seconds and how to stop signaling “easy target”* The truth about clearance rates and why “they’ll catch the guy” isn’t a plan* Simple, high-leverage steps to harden your home against property crime* Why your car is NOT a holster and how stolen guns become crime gunsDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Tonight on Defenders LIVE, Lora Thorson sits down with returning guest John Hearne, founder of Two Pillars Training and longtime federal law enforcement professional, to separate myth from reality when it comes to crime, criminals, and personal safety. John breaks down why the “big” crime numbers can’t always be trusted, how clearance rates expose hard truths about the legal system, and why responsible people must learn to assess risk with clear eyes: not just the odds, but the stakes.You’ll also hear eye-opening insight into how criminals select targets in seconds, why property crime is more common (and more preventable) than most people realize, and what actually moves the needle for home security. And yes, we go straight at a message that needs to be shouted from the rooftops: your car is not a holster. John explains how unsecured vehicle storage feeds criminal gun pipelines and what responsible ownership really looks like. This episode is honest, practical, and rooted in the kind of personal responsibility that builds stronger families and safer communities.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

In this Defenders LIVE episode, Lee Weems and Tyler Tharp go head-to-head (with respect) on what training really matters and why nuance is important.What you’ll walk away with:* Why “good with a gun” is more than speed or groups* Where USPSA/competition helps and where it can hurt* The real gap between technical skill and real-world decision-making* Optics reliability: what fails, what doesn’t, and whyDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Tonight’s Defenders LIVE episode is a rare kind of conversation… two strong voices, one shared mission, and a whole lot of nuance. Returning guests Lee Weems (law enforcement trainer, use-of-force and decision-making instructor) and Tyler Tharp (competitive shooter, coach, and performance-driven instructor) unpack a debate that started online: the value—and limits—of shooting sports as training for real-world defensive and law enforcement environments.They get honest about what “good with a gun” actually means, where competition builds real capability (and where it can build bad habits), why context matters as much as mechanics, and how you can train with both excellence and accountability. They also tackle pistol optics reliability with real-world numbers, plus the practical realities that keep most officers from getting the training they want—time, funding, and red tape. Most of all, this episode models something we need more of: disagreeing without disrespect, and sharpening each other without tearing each other down.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

I went off-script tonight… and it was scary, but it was real.In this episode with Brian Hill (The Complete Combatant), we talk about what happens when your training stops working and why the answer isn’t “try harder.”What you’ll get from this conversation:* How creativity fuels motivation when discipline starts feeling dead* Why blind spots show up as resistance (and what to do with that)* The edge of chaos vs. order—where real growth happens* Why sleep isn’t optional if you want skill to stick* How to move forward without shame when you fall off trackDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Tonight on Defenders LIVE, I welcomed back my friend Brian Hill of The Complete Combatant and I did something that honestly scared me: I showed up without a script. No outline. No safety net. Just heart, courage, and a willingness to practice letting go in real time.Brian breaks down a powerful framework for creativity and growth and why motivation dies when practice turns rigid, how blind spots hide inside our resistance, and why real progress happens on the edge between chaos and order. We talk about the trap of high-volume “grind” training, the role of sleep in performance, and what it really means to develop self-mastery without living in shame. Then we go deeper…into identity, pain, purpose, and how suffering can be transformed into something that strengthens you instead of breaking you.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Some battles don’t happen on a competition floor… they happen when life steals your breath and dares you to quit.In this Defenders LIVE episode, 5x world champion Molly Metz shares what mastery actually costs—and why she kept fighting when the system wasn’t fair.• What elite training teaches you about failure and courage• Why growth can feel lonely (and why it’s still worth it)• The mindset shift that happens after pain, setbacks, and injustice• How to keep moving forward when you feel outmatchedDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.What does mastery really demand, and what happens when life hits hard enough to knock you off your feet? In this episode of Defenders LIVE, Lora Thorson sits down with Molly Metz, a five-time world champion jump rope athlete, coach, entrepreneur, and inventor whose story goes far beyond athletics. Molly opens up about the discipline and precision it takes to build elite skill and why she believes real growth often comes only after you’ve been forced to stop.Molly shares how a serious car accident woke her up to bigger purpose, how she built a jump rope training movement that reached 800+ gyms, and what it cost her to defend her inventions when larger companies allegedly copied her patented technology. This is a conversation about resilience, integrity, and courage…the kind that keeps moving forward even when the fight isn’t fair. If you’ve ever felt misunderstood while trying to grow, or tempted to quit when the opponent looks bigger than you… this one’s for you.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

He didn’t find faith the way people expect.And that’s exactly why this story matters.Christian Griffith returns to Defenders LIVE to share the most unexpected chapter of his life, from lifelong agnostic to a faith journey that changed everything.In this episode, you’ll hear:* What finally opened the door to faith after years of resistance* Why healing doesn’t end after the big achievement* How to keep moving when life feels heavy and motivation is gone* The power of small, faithful steps on the hardest days* What resilience looks like when you’re rebuilding againDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Here is the previous interview with Christian from 2024 that started it all:Two years after his unforgettable first appearance, Christian Griffith returns to Defenders LIVE with a story no one saw coming, not even him. Known for extreme endurance, unfiltered honesty, and relentless resilience, Christian opens up about the most unexpected turning point of his life: a faith journey that began not with certainty, but questions.In this deeply personal conversation, we talk about what happens after the big feats. After the 3,000-mile run, after the spotlight, after the grind, when life gets heavy again. Christian shares how healing actually unfolds over time, why small acts of obedience matter more than massive wins, and how faith entered his life through moments he could never explain away. This episode is about courage, surrender, and learning how to keep moving forward, even when you are starting over.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

In this episode of Defenders LIVE, Lora Thorson sits down with Lee Weems—career peace officer, trainer, and adjunct professor—to talk about what most people miss when they judge high-stakes incidents from a single camera angle. Lee breaks down why “objectively reasonable” is the legal standard (even when it’s emotionally unpopular), how media narratives form, and why good tactics don’t always look good on video.They also go deeper into what makes training actually work: adult learning, asking better questions, and coaching the individual instead of forcing a one-size-fits-all method. Lee shares the moment bureaucracy rerouted his path, why he still can’t walk away from the profession, and how cognitive load exposes the gaps in our “square range” confidence. This is a conversation about truth, accountability, and becoming the kind of protector who can think clearly under pressure.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this Defenders LIVE conversation with Lee Weems, we go deep on what really matters when pressure is high:Why video clips can distort the truth (and inflame the public)What “objectively reasonable” actually means in use-of-force decisionsHow bureaucracy reshaped his life—and pushed him toward purposeWhy coaching beats commanding when you’re training adultsThe difference between technical skill… and real-world applicationLearn more about Lee at: www.thatweemsguy.com and www.firstpersonsafety.comThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Tyler Tharp doesn’t just teach shooting. He coaches people through pressure, plateaus, and the fear that keeps them stuck. In this episode of Defenders LIVE, Tyler shares how early experiences with being graded can shape a lifelong fear of failure, and why identity work and process-driven training can unlock real performance, both on the range and in everyday life.Tyler is the lead instructor at Synergy Training Group, a competitive shooter across USPSA and IDPA at the Master level, and a mentor with a background in tutoring, leadership, and church security. We talk about building a make-ready process, learning to live in the moment, and how personal loss reshaped his faith, purpose, and mission to serve. We also get practical, covering how to evaluate training and gear marketing, what makes a quality holster, and why live fire combined with pressure testing matters if you want real growth.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this Defenders LIVE episode, you’ll learn:• Why fear-based ceilings form and how to dismantle them• How identity and mission clarity unlock performance under pressure• What actually builds skill versus what just feels productive• How to spot bad training and gear marketing before it costs you time or money• Why living in the moment changes both shooting and life performance• How faith, loss, and purpose shape resilience and growthThis isn’t just about shooting better. It’s about thinking clearer, training smarter, and showing up stronger when it matters most.More about Tyler at www.synergyshooting.com.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Lately, I have been sitting with the idea that we do not really stay the same.Even when nothing looks like it is changing on the outside, something is always happening underneath. Sometimes that movement feels like momentum. Other times it feels like uncertainty, quiet, or doubt.That tension between shrinking and growing is what this video touches on.It is not a lesson or a breakdown. Just a real check-in and a bit of perspective on stepping into what comes next before you feel fully ready.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.A few quick updates I share at the end of the video:* Defenders LIVE has some excellent guests coming up over the next couple of months, starting next week* I have been invited to speak at an online summit at the end of January and will share more details soon* Paid subscribers will be receiving an email about an upcoming reflection and goal-setting group callThat is it. The rest is in the video.Thanks for being here and for walking into this year with me.Lora This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

The hardest fight isn’t out there… it’s in your mind.In this episode of Defenders LIVE, Steve Friskup joins Lora Thorson for a no-fluff conversation about protecting what matters most—your faith, your family, and your future.What you’ll take away:* Why guarding your mind and heart is harder than protecting your home* Steve’s life-changing moment: Jesus met him in a pickup truck off I-40* How culture wins when we lose discernment and absolute truth* Why the kitchen table is still America’s strongest defense* What real strength looks like: conviction, discipline, love, and leadershipDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Most people think they know what a self-defense encounter looks like… until it actually happens.In this conversation, Force Science Specialist Kaery Dudenhofer breaks open the truth about human performance, legal realities, and the hidden cost of defending life.In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why attacks unfold faster than your brain can process• How memory actually functions under stress• Why even justified defenders often face years of legal devastation• The role faith and humility play when everything is on the line• The practical tools every protector must carry every dayIf you carry — or love someone who does — this conversation matters.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Tonight on Defenders LIVE, we’re diving deep into the truth about self-defense — not the Hollywood version, not the social-media soundbites, but the real human, legal, and spiritual weight of what it means to protect innocent life. I’m joined by Kaery Dudenhofer, a respected firearms and self-defense instructor, longtime member of the Active Self-Protection teaching team, and a recent graduate of the Force Science Institute’s Advanced Specialist program.Kaery brings decades of training, thousands of hours of research, and a heart for protecting everyday people. In this conversation, she breaks down how attacks actually unfold, why human performance matters in court, what most concealed carriers don’t understand about memory, perception, and reaction time, and why even a righteous defense can lead to years of devastating legal fallout. Her real-world case examples — including defenders attacked in their own homes — reveal truths every everyday carrier needs to understand before they ever carry a gun.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Tonight’s Defenders LIVE conversation with Lex Reilly, a former soldier, wilderness guide, and a man who rebuilt his life from rock bottom — is one of the most honest we’ve had on Defenders LIVE. Lex opens up about:• Walking through PTSD, violence, addiction, and losing his children• Choosing between ending his life… or fighting for it• Experiencing emotional safety for the first time• Why men fear vulnerability — and why true masculinity requires it• How faith, wilderness, and brutal honesty brought him homeThis one shook me.Defenders LIVE is a supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Tonight, we go deep. Former Australian soldier Lex Reilly—known as The Australian Viking—opens up about the battles he didn’t fight overseas, but within his own home, his mind, and his heart. After Afghanistan, Lex spiraled into violence, addiction, emotional numbness, and the eventual loss of his children. But rather than ending his life, he stepped into the wilderness… literally. From the mountains of New Zealand to the Arctic Circle to the Montana backcountry, Lex walked straight into the unknown in search of healing, hope, and God.In this raw and powerful conversation, Lex shares how radical honesty, wilderness immersion, emotional surrender, and a growing faith in God brought him back from the brink. We talk about healthy masculinity, the truth about emotional safety, the courage required for transformation, and what it takes for a man to face himself without self-loathing or shame.Lex now guides men through some of the harshest environments on earth to help them confront the chaos inside, reclaim their identity, and rediscover purpose. His story is a testament to the freedom that comes when you stop running from yourself and start walking with truth.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

If you’ve ever walked through something that felt too heavy to carry, this conversation is for you.In this episode, Heidi Tyner gets real about grief, fear, and the quiet strength it takes to rebuild your life with intention — and she shares practical wisdom anyone can apply.You’ll walk away with:• A fresh perspective on grief — and why healing isn’t about “getting over it”• Simple everyday safety habits every woman should know• How to turn fear into awareness and personal confidence• Why community matters when you’re carrying heavy things• The mindset shift that helped Heidi reclaim her health and purposeIf you need courage, clarity, or just someone who gets it, this one matters.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Tonight I’m sitting down with longtime educator, mom, and everyday protector Heidi Tyner from Michigan. A drunk, angry parent at school and a dark walk to her car were the wake-up calls that pushed Heidi and her husband to get their CPLs and start training together. That “date night at the range” season turned into a lifelong commitment to learning, leading other women, and refusing to live in fear.Heidi has walked through divorce, single parenthood, raising a medically complex son, and the sudden loss of her husband at just 52 years old. In this conversation we talk about grief that doesn’t magically go away, what it means to honor someone you love with how you live, practical ways to be safer before you ever touch a firearm, and why awareness is the first line of defense. Heidi shares her journey into A Girl & A Gun, becoming a Refuse To Be A Victim instructor, rebuilding her health through Made Mom Coaching, and choosing gratitude even on the hardest anniversaries.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

If you’ve been craving a conversation that actually goes deeper than the headlines, this is it.Michael Ware doesn’t tiptoe around anything — faith, firearms, politics, fatherhood, adoption, character, ego, all of it. And he brings a level of honesty that is refreshing.Here’s why you should watch ⤵️If you’ve ever wondered:• How to reconcile faith with self-defense• Why our culture is terrified of real conversations• What adoption looks like through the lens of sacrifice and grace• How to stay grounded in a chaotic, divided world• What character really means in a time of outrage and noise…this episode will hit home.Michael’s story is raw, humbling, and full of wisdom.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with Michael Ware—craftsman, advocate, theologian at heart, and the man behind Controlled Chaos Arms and Iowa Firearms Coalition. What starts as a discussion about firearms and advocacy quickly becomes something deeper: a look at faith, calling, adoption, hardship, and what it really means to live what you teach.Michael shares openly about his upbringing, the gritty parts of his early adulthood, the long and painful road to adoption, and the way God reshaped his identity through fatherhood and service. We explore how he balances faith with responsibility, why he refuses to shy away from hard conversations, and why he believes courage, character, and conviction matter now more than ever.We also talk about the mission of the Iowa Firearms Coalition, the heart behind his men’s ministry, and the spiritual maturity required to navigate a chaotic and divided world with clarity and compassion.If you value authenticity, truth, and living life with purpose—you’re going to love this one.Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations that challenge, encourage, and strengthen your walk.Learn more at:www.IowaFC.orgwww.ControlledChaosArms.comwww.CBFNewton.org This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

In this week’s Defenders LIVE, I sat down again with Jonathan Willis — husband, father, veteran firefighter/paramedic, and lead instructor for Gunset Training Group — to talk about what real-world readiness looks like.Jonathan’s story bridges decades of trauma response, leadership, and instruction. From building the RWT Pocket Kit to teaching trauma medicine and defensive shotgun, he’s bringing the lessons of the street to everyday citizens who refuse to rely on luck when seconds count.We cover:🔥 A practical, everyday trauma kit that actually fits your pocket🔥 Why medical prep belongs right beside your firearm — and what most people still get wrong🔥 The truth about defensive shotguns (especially for women) and how training changes confidence🔥 Mentorship vs. coaching — why true guidance isn’t bought, it’s built through relationship and characterDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Jonathan doesn’t just train skill. He calls us back to responsibility — the duty to protect life, to be calm in chaos, and to lead with faith and humility.If you’ve ever wondered how to bridge preparation with purpose, this conversation will challenge the way you think about training and community.💡 Connect with Jonathan:👉 Learn more at www.trainwithwillis.com, www.gunset.us and www.tdiohio.com.✦Stay sharp. Stay grounded. And keep leading with courage.— Lora ThorsonHost, Defenders LIVEThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

When life goes sideways, preparation isn’t paranoia—it’s peace. In this conversation, Special Operations veteran and two-time NTI winner John Holschen returns to Defenders LIVE to break down a clear, faith-grounded approach to extreme events—active shooters, coordinated attacks, explosives, even chemical/biological hazards. We move past movie myths and into practical wisdom: how to shorten your OODA loop, choose immediate actions on demand, and see cover and concealment the way professionals do—like a shadow.John lays out a simple five-step framework: identify realistic problems and solutions, pre-plan preferred actions (immediate action drills), build the right competencies through training-practice-testing, and make a commitment to act. We talk movement in large venues, how to think when you hear shots but can’t see the threat, and why preparation actually allows you to live more calmly with your family.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.When evil shows up, panic isn’t a plan. Preparation is peace.• The 5-step framework to think clearly under pressure• Immediate action drills to cut through the freeze• Active shooter realities: see it, hear it, or hear of it—now what?• “Cover as shadow” movement you’ll remember when it counts• Why preparation kills paranoia and strengthens your familyWatch now on YouTube or Defenders-LIVE.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

He spent 25 years kicking in doors—until God opened one.SWAT officer Paul Milone has lived through more than 1,100 missions, 300 undercover buys, and moments that would shake most people to their core.But it wasn’t training that finally brought him peace—it was surrender.In this Defenders LIVE conversation, Paul and I talk about what happens when everything you’ve relied on—discipline, training, control—meets something bigger than you. His story is one of courage, humility, and faith forged under fire.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.What you’ll learn:* How to think with a gun under extreme pressure — offset, target discrimination, and malfunction mindset.* The difference between plainclothes and true undercover — and how to “play the long game” safely.* Real team culture: trust, prayer, and the kind of camaraderie you can’t fake.* Processing 2020’s riots, staying mission-focused, and keeping your soul intact.* Identity shifts, retirement “doors,” and following God’s lead when you can’t see the next step.Paul is the author of Ram One (Amazon bestseller, 2024) and lead instructor at RAM Master Training, where he teaches realism-driven tactics shaped by decades on the street.This episode will sharpen your decision-making, strengthen your mindset, and remind you that even the strongest warriors find peace not by holding tighter—but by letting go.—📘 Learn more: www.RamOneProductions.com | www.RamMasterTraining.comThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Join host Lora Thorson for an inspiring conversation with Randy Watt—retired police chief, Special Forces colonel, and founder of the Power of Awareness Institute. In this episode, Randy shares hard-won lessons from decades in law enforcement and the military, exploring the deeper meaning of situational awareness, the power of discipline, and the importance of self-awareness and faith.Randy opens up about mental health, overcoming personal struggles, and how true strength is found in honesty and vulnerability. Whether you’re interested in personal safety, leadership, or personal growth, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and heartfelt stories.Learn more about Randy’s work at mypoa.org, warriorcreed.us, and srwinc.us.Subscribe for more powerful conversations on Defenders LIVE!Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Hey friends,I wasn’t planning to relaunch Defenders LIVE until the end of the year — but I realized something: I miss it too much to wait.I miss the conversations that challenge us to grow.I miss learning from incredible protectors and leaders.And I miss connecting with you — the people walking this same path of courage, faith, and personal defense.So... we’re back.🎙️ Coming up on Defenders LIVE:* Randy Watt — leadership, mindset, and resilience in the life of a protector* Paul Maloney — former Omaha PD SWAT officer and author of RAM One* A special tribute episode honoring my friend John Holschen, featuring an unreleased conversation he was passionate about sharing before he passed.These stories mean something — not just because of who they come from, but because of what they remind us: that protecting life starts from the inside out.If you haven’t already, join my private Facebook group, Defenders LIVE with Lora Thorson, where I share more of my own journey — training, health, mindset, and the small daily choices that shape us as protectors.Thank you for sticking with me. I can’t wait to bring you along for this next chapter.With gratitude and purpose,Lora This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

If you noticed that there was not a show posted last week, here’s a video describing what’s going on right now. There are about 160 episodes in the archive over the last 3 years. This should be enough to tide you over until the big launch! This pause should be relatively short and I’ll keep in touch! Thank you for your continued support. Warm regards,Lora This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

In this episode of Defenders LIVE, veteran instructor Jim Shanahan breaks down why most training misses the mark—and how to raise your standard before it’s too late.🔑 Learn what it means to be a Deliberate Responder, why hope is not a plan, and how to blend elite performance with real-world defense.💥 Whether you're new to training or a seasoned protector, this conversation will redefine your mindset.▶️ Watch now — your next level starts here.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Join host Lora Thorson in this gripping episode of Defenders LIVE as she welcomes Jim Shanahan, founder of Advanced Performance Shooting and a true pioneer in tactical firearms instruction. With 30+ years in the military, law enforcement, and elite training circles, Jim shares his no-nonsense philosophy on why hope is not a course of action, the science behind reaction times, and how real readiness blends performance and deliberate intent.📚 Learn the origin of The Deliberate Responder, dive into data-backed training techniques, and hear powerful lessons in leadership that apply far beyond the gun range.Notable Quotes:“If you're not training people to replace you, you're not leading.”“Shoot fast, but think faster.”“Don’t teach techniques they’ll have to unlearn later.”🔗 Connect with Jim: https://advancedperformanceshooting.com 📖 Book: One of a Hundred: A Deliberate Responder (Available on Amazon)Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

I am resharing this episode of Defenders LIVE because the first release had the wrong title and description. This conversation was with John Holschen—and it turned out to be one of the most meaningful episodes I recorded with him.Many of you may already know: John recently passed away. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and all who trained with him. Our entire community is diminished by this loss. John wasn’t only a decorated veteran and master instructor—he was a man of kindness, clarity, and conviction. He had a gift for teaching in a way that made you feel seen, capable, and ready.I want to honor him by sharing this corrected episode with you today. It captures so much of what made John special as a teacher and as a human being.And there’s more: before he passed, John recorded a special conversation with me that he felt passionately about sharing. It has not yet been aired, but it will be released soon. He cared deeply about getting this information out, and I believe it will stand as part of his legacy.For now, I invite you to listen again—or maybe for the first time—to this episode that reflects the heart and skill of a man we will not forget.With respect and gratitude,Lora ThorsonEpisode notes below:Learn how to train like the fight will actually happen. Lora Thorson sits down with Special Operations veteran and master instructor John Holschen to unpack NeuroDrills, visual processing under stress, movement that matters, ready positions that work in the real world, and how great coaching turns shooters into thinking defenders.What you will learn:* How to stay visually aware while delivering accurate fire* Movement that makes sense, when to sprint and when to plant* Verbal commands and tape loops you can trust under pressure* The difference between exposure, practice, and testing* Building confidence through competence and why good curriculum always evolvesAbout John:John Holschen: U.S. Special Operations veteran, two-time National Tactical Invitational winner, and creator of NeuroDrills and Applied Defensive Handgun Skills. He was a certified master instructor who taught across the country, helping everyday people become thinking shooters.Rest in peace, John. You will be missed.#ThinkingShooter, #NeuroDrills, #DefensiveTraining, #UseOfForce, #SelfDefenseMindsetThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

This week on Defenders Live, host Lora Thorson interviews Mike Kinsey—firearms instructor, father, believer, and community leader—on how living with conviction changes everything. 💡Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.🎯 Highlights include:* Insights on aligning your training with your values* How to build real community through preparedness* The 52-Week Challenge that keeps shooters sharp all year* Real talk on balancing strength, humility, and faith* Why defending liberty starts at home🎥 Watch now and get inspired to train smarter, live better, and lead with purpose.Powerful Quotes“If you're spending your hard‑earned time and energy and money to go get training, make sure the skills you're learning actually matter in your real life.”“Joy is very different from happiness … I find joy in voluntarily shouldering responsibility that matters.”“Surrendering requires strength. That strength comes through trusting God—not just using brute force.”Visit traingunset.com for upcoming classes and events.Follow on social media: Instagram @gunset_official | Facebook traingunsetJoin the Gunset 52‑Week Challenge on Facebook and commit to consistent cold-draw training with a community of accountability.Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

🔥 Feeling stuck? This might be the breakthrough you didn’t know you needed.In this raw, deeply personal episode of Defenders LIVE, host Lora Thorson sits down with leadership coach and former pastor Matt Ware to uncover how leaders at every level — from business to family — can rise from failure, fear, and loss into greater strength, clarity, and courage.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.💡 What you’ll gain:* How to lead yourself when life falls apart* Why subtracting might bring you more clarity than adding* The mindset shift that helps you rise again* Why embracing discomfort is your next breakthroughNotable Quotes“Growth equals pain. And pain is the only path to purpose.” – Matt Ware “You might not be pursuing purpose—because purpose is already pursuing you.” – Matt Ware “If you're not leading yourself, you forfeit the right to lead others.” – Matt Ware “Simplicity and peace now matter more to me than productivity.” – Matt WareResources🎧 Listen to more of Matt: [The Shift Podcast] — theshiftpodcast.co 🌐 Connect with Matt: themattware.com 📱 Follow Matt: @themattware on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok 🌟 Learn more about Defenders LIVE: defenderslive.com🎧 Watch now and reclaim the clarity, courage, and conviction you were made for.🔗 themattware.com | defenderslive.com | theshiftpodcast.coThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Host Lora Thorson and Dr. Fuller, building on their previous conversation, dive deeper into what civil unrest looks like in practice—especially in the wake of recent events like the LA protests and escalating global conflict. This episode covers:* The anatomy of societal breakdown* Human behavior under stress and chaos* The moral and mental framework needed to prepare* Physical training as a cornerstone of resilience* Reading subtle signals in others, and moreDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.What really happens when society starts to break down?Join host Lora Thorson and FBI interrogator Dr. T.C. Fuller as they unpack: 🧠 How to stay calm under pressure 🏃‍♂️ Why physical fitness boosts emotional control 👀 How to read people fast in crisis ⚖️ How to prep your family—and moral compass—for chaos🎧 LISTEN NOW and gain tools for a more resilient mindset.Notable Quotes:“You don’t rise to the occasion—you fall to your level of training.”“Composure under pressure is a trained skill—not a personality trait.”“Push back the frontiers of ignorance.”“Keep talking—and listen.”Resources & Links* Books by Dr. T.C. Fuller: Painting Over Rust, Empathy for the Devil, No Safe Alternative → Available via tcfuller.com, thehoracegroup.net, and Amazon* The Horus Group: Crisis, leadership, and behavioral training → Available via thehorusgroup.netThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

In this powerful, intimate episode of Defenders LIVE, Ross Hick flips the script by interviewing regular host Lora Thorson. This raw, transformative conversation delves into Lora’s emotional, spiritual, and physical evolution over the past few years.Together, they unpack:* What it really takes to change your life* The hidden weight of false humility* Faith as a foundation for real transformation* Learning to be seen—and owning your power* Why internal change is the key to sustainable external resultsWhether you’re looking to improve your fitness, lead your family, or shed layers of self-doubt, this episode is your guide to reclaiming your identity and living with purpose.Lora’s heartfelt rant referred to in this interview: Join our community at defenders-live.comDefenders LIVE is supported by you. Consider becoming a paid subscriber.Notable Quotes“I just wanted to feel comfortable in my own skin.” — Lora Thorson“People are asking the wrong questions. It’s not about what I ate—it’s about what changed in me.”“Being seen used to terrify me. Now I understand it’s where real power lives.”“I don’t have to know the outcome—I just have to show up, every single day.”“True humility isn’t hiding who you are. It’s owning your strength without apology.”#Transformation #FaithInAction #DefendersLIVE #FromBrokenToBold #WomenWhoLead #EmotionalResilience #SelfDefenseStartsWithin This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

In this deeply moving and vulnerable episode, we welcome Jeremy Morris—husband, father, business owner, and co-founder of Wild Courage. Jeremy shares his raw journey from rock bottom to redemption, shedding light on trauma, addiction, healing, and the profound transformation that comes from facing your truth. His story is one of pain and triumph, steeped in faith, humility, and a mission to help others reclaim their stories.Whether you're navigating your own healing or supporting someone who is, this conversation is a beacon of light and hope. Jeremy’s honesty and courage invite us all to look deeper, to heal, and to reconnect with our true selves.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber."Redemption & Wild Courage w/ Jeremy Morris" 🔥Get ready for one of the most raw and powerful conversations we’ve ever had. 🎧✨ Here's what you'll take away:💔 What hitting rock bottom really looks like—and the climb back up🔥 How vulnerability can break shame and build strength🙏 The role of faith in healing trauma and addiction🤝 Creating safe spaces for men to share and grow🐎 Mental health in the Western/cowboy culture💡 If you've ever felt broken, lost, or unworthy—this episode is for YOU.Notable Quotes“You don’t have to get cleaned up before going to God. He already knows your mess.”“God never gave up on me—even when I did.”“You can't give away what you don't have—compassion starts with yourself.”Wild Courage Websitewww.thewildcourage.orgThe Wild Courage Podcast: www.https://www.thewildcourage.org/podcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064059703547Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wild_courage_official/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC15k5rNnUjJQ5Zj__9HrN2w#RedemptionStory, #MensMentalHealth, #FaithAndHealing, #WildCourage, #OvercomingAddiction This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

In this powerful follow-up episode, host Lora Thorson sits down once again with John Hearne—a seasoned public safety professional, retired U.S. Park Ranger, and the brain behind Two Pillars Training. With over 30 years of experience, John delivers sobering truths and practical insights on how to train for violence, maintain emotional control, and truly understand human performance under stress.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.👊 In this no-fluff convo, you’ll learn:* 💥 Why fantasy training fails in real life* 🧠 How stress crushes performance—and how to beat it* 😨 The truth about fear and emotional control* 🎯 The 2 pillars that make or break your readiness* 🧪 What science says about training that actually worksNotable Quotes:* "You're not training for the best-case scenario. You're training for when everything goes wrong."* "Fear is a natural response. The difference between survival and failure is how you train to manage it."* "Emotional control isn't a switch you flip—it's a skill you build under pressure."* "Cognitive load is real. The more you try to do under stress, the worse you'll perform without practice."Connect with John Hearne:Two Pillars Training: https://twopillarstraining.com/Class registration: https://twopillars.corsizio.com/🎯 Follow Defenders LIVE: www.defenders-live.comThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Communicator & Protector: The Journey of Lora ThorsonIn this compelling episode of the Sling'N Lead Podcast, your hosts TJ and Kent sit down with the extraordinary Lora Thorson, host of Defenders LIVE. This is more than just a guest interview—it’s an exploration of mission, mindset, and personal transformation.Lora shares her evolution from a business-savvy photographer in the rodeo scene to a sought-after firearms instructor. She opens up about the critical turning point that led her to arm herself with knowledge—and a handgun—and why her roles as a communicator and protector are central to everything she does.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.🎯 What you’ll learn:* 💡 How a terrifying moment in Montana sparked Lora’s mission to teach* 🎓 The real meaning of being a “communicator” & “protector”* 🔧 Tips for helping new shooters succeed (and safely fail)* 🧠 How instructors can build trust & connection on the range* 🚀 Turning self-doubt into strength and empowermentNotable Quotes* "I’m not seeking it. I’m offering it."* "That moment in Montana showed me I wasn’t prepared—and that had to change immediately."* "I used to try to hide my joy, but now I let it overflow—and it’s contagious."* "If they can’t think with a gun in their hand, they’re not ready for the next level."Connect with Lora Thorson* 🌐 Defenders USA: https://defenders-usa.com* 🎧 Defenders LIVE: https://defenders-live.com* 📸 @‌defenderslive on FB, IG, Rumble, YTSling’N Lead Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@slingnleadpodcast6374Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

🎧 Episode SummaryIn this emotionally charged and deeply inspiring episode, host Lora Thorson welcomes Christian Griffith, a survivor of child sexual abuse turned extreme endurance athlete and vocal advocate for trauma survivors. From starring in the History Channel’s The Selection: Special Operations Experiment to running 3,142 miles across America, Christian shares his journey of healing, resilience, and advocacy.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Listeners are taken on a roller coaster through intense mental and physical trials, the raw truths of his past, and the powerful lessons he’s drawn from both.🚨 RE-RUN ALERT 🚨This episode hit deep... and it’s worth every second.🎙️ Christian Griffith—you may know him from The Selection on the History Channel, but there’s WAY more to his story.💥 What you’ll hear:🔹 Surviving unthinkable childhood trauma🔹 Wrestling with forgiveness—not pretending it's easy🔹 The bold reason behind his 3,000-mile run across America🔹 What real courage looks like (hint: it’s not polished)🔹 How to fight for healing when the battle is within👇 Drop a 💬 if you’ve watched this one before—or if it’s your first time tuning in.🎧 Full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/@defenderslive/videos🔥 And don’t miss next week’s Slingin’ Lead highlight episode—coming soon!Notable Quotes* “You can always do more than you think you can.”* "Never quit—even when the wheels fall off, ride the axles."* “I want to be the man my grandfather was—resilient, responsible, respected.”🌐 Connect with Christian Griffith* Website: run2heal.org* Instagram: @‌christian_griffith* Charity: Run2Heal – Advocating for child abuse survivors through endurance sports and storytellingThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

In this deeply insightful episode, Lora welcomes Shane Kerwin, a seasoned Special Forces Medical Sergeant and sniper with over two decades of military experience. Together, they explore the intricate journey of transitioning from elite military service to training everyday citizens in personal defense. Shane shares how his deep-rooted philosophy of teaching, patience, and mentorship transforms training from technical instruction into life-changing personal empowerment.Through authentic dialogue, they discuss critical topics like mindset development, tactical anatomy, decision-making under stress, and the importance of cultivating protective instincts—particularly for women and survivors of violence.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.🎯 What you'll learn from this powerhouse episode:👉 How Special Forces training translates to real-life self-defense🧠 Why mindset matters more than marksmanship under stress🔫 The truth about "tactical anatomy" & decision-making in gunfights❤️ Empowerment for survivors & women stepping into strength🧭 Becoming your own first responder—mentally, physically, emotionally🎙️ It’s deep. It’s real. It’s a must-listen.Notable Quotes* “There should be something about what you were doing last year…that makes you cringe just a little. That’s how you know you’re growing.” — Lora Thorson* “Somewhere, someone loves you and expects you to come home.” — Cali Kerwin, via ShaneResources & Mentions* Personal Survival Solutions: https://www.personalsurvivalsolutions.com* Upcoming course: Armed Citizens Encounters: Tactical Anatomy, Trauma & Treatments – July 2025* Irregular Warfare: Singleton Operator Course w/ Brian Hill – December 2025* A Girl & A Gun Conference – Shane will be instructing on grip, presentation, and processing multiple targets* Combatives Association Summit – September 2025* 🎯 Follow Defenders LIVE: http://www.Defenders-LIVE.comThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

What you'll learn:* 🎯 Why confidence without training is dangerous* 🧠 How mindset beats gear every time* 🛠️ 3 common gun training myths — busted* 💬 The power of why in adult learning* 🤝 How real connection makes safer studentsDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this deeply reflective episode of Defenders LIVE, host Lora Thorson welcomes Kent Hower, Chief Instructor at Green Mountain Defense, for an unfiltered conversation about transformation, humility, and the true heart of firearms instruction. Kent shares how his early overconfidence gave way to relentless training, introspection, and ultimately a philosophy grounded in personalized education and emotional intelligence.Despite not having a military or law enforcement background, Kent has emerged as a sought-after instructor through his deep understanding of communication, mindset, and adult learning. If you’ve ever questioned your readiness, your teaching methods, or your “why” as an instructor, this is your episode.Notable Quotes:"People prioritize gear over growth. Stop focusing on stuff — focus on the student.""This moment right now — the universe gave you this. Not some paycheck. Not some follower count. This."Connect with Kent Hower:* 🌐 Website: greenmountaindefense.com* 📸 Instagram/Facebook: @‌greenmountaindefense* 🎙️ Podcast: Slinging Lead – Available on all major platforms* 📩 Email: [email protected]🎯 Follow Defenders LIVE: www.defenders-live.comThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

In this episode, you'll learn:* 🚫 Why "just owning a gun" isn't enough* 🧠 The mindset that separates protectors from posers* 💉 Why medical training might matter more than marksmanship* 🛑 The real deal with external safeties & revolvers* 📽️ How real self-defense encounters actually unfoldDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this packed follow-up episode, Lora welcomes back Will Workman, a firearms instructor and the thoughtful voice behind the Workman Protection YouTube channel. Together, they dive deep into the overlooked aspects of self-defense: from cringeworthy gun range myths to the critical importance of training, mindset, and medical preparedness.Plus, Will opens up about his journey—how faith, family, and a heart for service led him from social work to becoming one of the most respected and humble voices in the firearms training community.This isn’t just another “gun talk.” It’s about the responsibility of carrying a weapon, the reality of self-defense, and the readiness that comes from a life lived intentionally. 🚨Notable Quotes:* “You need to carry the gun you shoot the best that you’ll actually carry—every day.” — Will Workman* “It’s not about cool gear. It’s about what happens when seconds count—and no one’s coming to save you.” — Lora Thorson🛠️ Tools & Resources Mentioned* 🎥 YouTube Channels:* https://www.youtube.com/@WorkmanProtection* https://www.youtube.com/@SelfDefenseEncounters* 📧 Contact Will Workman: [email protected]* 🌐 Visit: https://workmanprotection.com/🎯 Follow Defenders LIVE* Check Out Defenders Live: https://defenders-live.com/Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

What you'll learn:🔹 Building discipline before life demands it🔹 Facing fear and redefining your identity 🛡️🔹 How to move through grief and loss with strength 💔➡️❤️🔹 The secret to real growth: embracing failure 🚀🔹 Why self-compassion unlocks deeper success 🌟🔹 How to find joy even in life's toughest battles💥 Don't miss this one — it's full of wisdom, grit, and heart!Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this deeply inspiring and emotional episode, Lora Thorson welcomes back her cherished guest, Brian Hill of The Complete Combatant. Dubbed "The Great Brian Hill" for his profound impact on so many lives, Brian shares an intimate update about his journey through serious health challenges, personal growth, vulnerability, and rediscovering purpose.Through authentic conversation, Lora and Brian reflect on resilience, transformation, vulnerability, and the meaning of truly living with purpose. Expect wisdom, honesty, and heartfelt moments that will leave you thinking differently about life, struggle, and strength.Notable Quotes:* "You build the reservoir of discipline before you need it." — Brian Hill* "Failure is not the enemy. Avoiding failure is." — Lora Thorson* "The obstacle is the way. Whatever stands in your way is your way." — Brian Hill* "Gratitude and compassion aren’t weaknesses — they are the unlocks to deeper strength." — Lora ThorsonResources* The Complete Combatant –* Inner Game of Shooting Class – July 2025, Montana 🇺🇸 https://www.shootingclasses.com/thecompletecombatant/course/?courseId=4363🎯 Follow Defenders LIVE* Check Out Defenders Live: www.defenders-live.comThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

What you’ll learn:🔍 The #1 myth about sex offenders (and who’s really the threat)💔 Why most victims stay silent for years🧠 How manipulation works—step by chilling step👶 How to build trust so your kids actually come to you🚩 How to spot red flags in behavior—not just in strangers👂 Every parent, teacher, and protector needs to hear this.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this eye-opening and deeply sobering episode, we welcome back Ross Hick, a 17-year veteran of probation surveillance and behavioral monitoring, specializing in supervising high-risk felons including sex offenders, gang members, and those with severe mental illness.Ross shares his frontline insights into the true nature of sex crimes, predators, and victim behavior—exposing dangerous myths and offering practical tools for parents, educators, and citizens to protect themselves and their families. This conversation pulls no punches, exploring how offenders operate, why punitive systems often fail, and what actually works when it comes to prevention and rehabilitation.⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains explicit and disturbing content related to sexual abuse, domestic violence, and child exploitation. Listener discretion is advised.Notable Quotes:* “People don’t change unless they have to. And most don’t know how to force themselves to have to.”* “Sex offenders aren’t cured. The best we do is manage it—layered systems of accountability, for life.📚 Resources & Links* 🎯 Citizens Defense Research: citizensdefenseresearch.com* 🛡️ Ross Hick’s Classes: At the Active Self Protection Conference – September in Manhattan, KS* 📖 The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker – Recommended reading on intuitive survival signals* 🧩 National Sexual Violence Resource Center – nsvrc.org🎯 Follow Defenders LIVE* Check Out Defenders LIVE: https://www.defenders-live.comThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

📌 What You’ll Learn: ✅ Why most people are unprepared for real-world trauma (and how to change that). ✅ The truth about Aggressive CPR & Narcan use. ✅ What should (and shouldn't) be in your trauma kit. ✅ Breaking myths about shotgun performance training. ✅ How life's toughest lessons can create a mindset of gratitude & purpose.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this episode of Defenders LIVE, Lora Thorson sits down with Jonathan Willis, a dedicated husband, father, and expert in trauma medical preparedness. With 20 years of experience as a firefighter paramedic and now an instructor at Gunset Training Group and Tactical Defense Institute, Jonathan offers life-saving insights aimed at empowering everyday people to be ready when seconds count. From the misconceptions surrounding trauma response to the incredible value of aggressive CPR and Narcan use, Jonathan’s mission is to make everyone a force multiplier in life-threatening situations.Notable Quotes:* “Trauma is connected to existing in the world. It’s not just about gunfights.”* “You aren’t asked a question like that very often. So when you are, you better speak the truth.”* “If people just would bother, it would change a lot... A lot of people would walk the earth today if we weren't thinking about outsourcing it.”* “You better live a life of gratitude. You better be enthusiastic.”Resources and Links:🌐 Learn more: TrainWithWillis.com🎯 Follow Defenders LIVE* Check Out Defenders Live: http://www.defenders-live.comThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

Join us for life-saving tactics with experts from the Tactical Anatomy Summit. Featuring: Steve Moses, Andy Anderson, Chuck Haggard, Troy Miller, and Shane Kerwin.🎯 What You’ll Learn: ✅ Critical Shot Placement: Where & why to aim for maximum effectiveness. ✅ Real-World Gunfight Survival: How mindset and training make all the difference. ✅ Emergency Treatment Tips: What to do if you or someone else is hit. ✅ Pocket Pistols 101: Using small firearms effectively. ✅ Legal & Tactical Aftermath: What to do when the shooting is over.Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this power-packed episode of Defenders LIVE, Lora Thorson is joined by a stellar panel of instructors from the upcoming Tactical Anatomy Summit. This unique summit features experts in emergency medicine, law enforcement, special operations, and firearms training. Together, they discuss what really happens when a bullet meets the human body, how to train for real-world gunfights, and the critical mindset required to survive and prevail in high-stress situations.* Notable Quotes:“Hollywood gives people unrealistic expectations about what gunshot wounds look like and what they do.” - Andy Anderson* “The gun you can get to is the better gun.” - Chuck Haggard* “Pistols don’t work. Anything worth shooting is worth shooting twice or three times.” - Troy Miller* “The post-fight is just as important as the fight itself. Your ability to respond effectively afterwards is critical.” - Shane KerwinResources and Links:Registration:📅 Nashville, TN: April 12th - 13th, 2025 (SOLD OUT)📅 Fort Worth, TX: June 21st - 22nd, 2025 (LIMITED SPOTS REMAINING)🔗 Register Here: PTGTrainingLLC.com/registration🎯 Follow Defenders LIVECheck Out Defenders Live: https://www.defenders-live.comThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

💡 What you’ll learn: ✅ How Kids to Kings is transforming young lives through mentorship & discipline 👑 ✅ The real impact of trauma & how to break the cycle 🛑🔄 ✅ Why firearm education matters—especially in underserved communities 🎯 ✅ The role of history & family in shaping self-reliance 📜🏡 ✅ How boys thrive with structure, accountability & real leadershipDefenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Join us as we sit down with Devin Perkins — the visionary behind Kids to Kings under Walk the Talk America. He’s an advocate for mental health, responsible firearm education, and a passionate mentor working to break cycles of trauma in underserved communities. Devin also contributes to the Guns and Mental Health podcast, where he explores the critical intersection of firearms and well-being.Notable Quotes from Devin Perkins* On Personal Responsibility & Breaking Cycles “I was not going to be another one of them. I did everything in my power to make sure that wasn't going to happen.”* On Mentorship & Meeting Kids Where They Are “We’re meeting these kids where they're at, and bringing them along, and WITH the bringing them along we definitely have standards—so they're going to grow intellectually, mentally, and physically.”* On the Importance of Teaching Boys Emotional Intelligence “Today's society is very, very hindering on boys. They are naturally going to be aggressive. You can’t suppress that—you have to curate it.”* On the Success of Kids to Kings “Right now, success is getting phone calls from these boys asking to go to the range. That means whatever we've implemented into them, they’re still thinking about this every day.”Resources & How to Get Involved* Learn More & Support the Mission: Visit the website at: https://walkthetalkamerica.org/kids-to-kings/ to get detailed information about the program, see where donations go (ammo, travel, range maintenance), and find upcoming event details.* Podcasts & Social Media:* Listen to the Guns and Mental Health podcast for more discussions on the intersection of mental health and firearms.* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidstokings/* Upcoming Events: Keep an eye out for the program’s expansion into Colorado Springs and future multi-city tours that aim to bring these impactful programs to more communities.Chapters2:00 Origins & Motivation10:00 Mentorship & Trust18:00 Holistic Approach34:00 Impact & Future Vision🎯 Follow Defenders LIVE* Check Out Defenders Live: www.defenders-live.comThanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

💡 What you'll learn in this must-watch episode:✅ Why freedom isn’t inherited—it must be forged 🏛️✅ The harsh legal realities of self-defense ⚖️✅ Castle Doctrine vs. Stand Your Ground—know the difference! 🏠🚫✅ Why mental discipline (Stoicism) is helpful to a freer life 🧠✅ How to prepare for the aftermath of a self-defense situation 🛡️Defenders LIVE is suppoerted by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this powerful episode of Defenders Live, host Lora Thorson sits down with Alex Ooley, a dedicated advocate for personal freedom, self-defense, and constitutional rights. Alex, a practicing attorney and firearms instructor, shares his mission to help people think critically, understand their rights, and take responsibility for their own freedom.Notable Quotes from Alex Ooley:* "The mind of a Stoic means focusing on what you can control. If you spend your energy reacting to every headline, you're just giving away your power."* "Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground don’t give you a license to kill. They simply remove the duty to retreat—your use of force must still be justified."* "The best self-defense tool is not a gun—it’s knowledge. If you don’t understand the law, your rights, and your responsibilities, you’re setting yourself up for failure."* "Freedom is not inherited; it must be forged. If we don’t actively protect it, someone else will gladly take control for us."📢 Resources Mentioned📌 Handgun Law Reference Guide – Handgunlaw.us📌 The Law of Self Defense – Book by Andrew Branca📌 The Armed Citizens Legal Defense Network – armedcitizensnetwork.org📌 Mas Ayoob’s Self-Defense Principles – Essential training for responsible carriers🎙️ Connect with Alex Ooley:Website: ForgeofFreedom.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ForgeofFreedomPodcast: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, & more!Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForgeofFreedomX: https://twitter.com/ForgeofFreedomInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ForgeofFreedom🎯 Follow Defenders LIVE* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@defenderslive* Instagram: https://instagram.com/DefendersLive* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556451185471* Check Out Defenders Live Merch: https://www.defenderslive.com/Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

🎙️ Defenders LIVE with Lora Thorson – In this episode, Lora interviews Matt Little, Special Forces Veteran, SWAT Officer, Master Class Shooter & Bestselling Author!🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Mastering Mind, Body & Spirit – Why self-mastery is key to success ✅ Mental Toughness & Decision-Making – How to train under stress 🧠⚡ ✅ The 80/20 Rule of Training – Train smarter, not just harder 📊 ✅ Mindfulness & Performance – Unlock your full potential 🎯 ✅ How Warriors Think & Adapt – Lessons from elite training 🚀Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this powerful episode, we sit down with Matt Little, to discuss the philosophy of training, discipline, and the warrior mindset.Whether you're a concealed carrier, business owner, athlete, or just someone looking to level up in life, this episode is packed with wisdom, strategy, and mindset shifts to help you train for life.Notable Quotes from Matt Little:* "The way you train is the way you live."* "Mindful, deliberate, and intentional practice is the key to improvement in anything."* "In a crisis, the ability to make the best decision now is far more valuable than waiting for the perfect decision later."* "You don’t rise to the occasion—you fall to the level of your training."📢 Resources & Mentions* 📖 Matt’s Book – The Way Is In The Training → https://a.co/d/anyr4t0 * 🌎 Matt’s Website – GreybeardActual.com * The story behind the name: https://greybeardactual.com/blog/the-greybeards/ 🎯 Follow Defenders LIVE* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@defenderslive* Instagram: https://instagram.com/DefendersLive* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556451185471* Check Out Defenders Live Merch: https://www.defenderslive.com/Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe