The TTPOA Podcast

We invited Scott Howell from the Ironsight Podcast to sit down with us and NTOA Staff members at the NTOA conference to untangle how law enforcement terminology, training culture, and information sharing shape real-world warrant service. We challenge the way “dynamic,” “deliberate,” and “no knock” get used, then work toward clearer definitions, better decision making, and better communication across teams and leadership.
• NTOA’s role in national collaboration, standards guidance, and training education
• Why incident debriefs beat social media clips for context and learning
• How “dynamic entry” becomes multiple meanings across agencies
• Centering step, threshold assessment, and why labels drift over time
• Checklist behavior versus problem solving under stress
• No-knock warrants as a judicial exception rather than a tactic
• Presence, purpose, and authority as risk mitigation for everyone nearby
• Capability limits, team tiers, and the cost of copying bigger teams
• The 2022 position paper, how it was interpreted, and how it spread
• Data limits, LIoKA examples, and why measuring outcomes is hard
• Instructor messaging, professionalism, and keeping feedback channels open

TTPOA Partnerships:

Jorge Pastore Foundation

Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training. We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness. In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association.

https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/

The American Warrior Association

The American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.

https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs

The job trains you to win the fight, but it does not always train you to carry what comes after. From the middle of the TTPOA vendor floor, we sit down with Brad Ortiz (Science Shop) and Dwayne from the American Warrior Association to get brutally practical about officer wellness, resilience, and the kind of support that actually works for first responders, veterans, and families.

We dig into what “resiliency training” really means and why a proactive wellness framework matters just as much as firearms reps. The conversation gets specific on moral injury in law enforcement, how the steady drip of hard calls and broken systems rewires your stress response over time, and why the tipping point is rarely the one dramatic moment people expect. We also unpack culturally competent clinicians and why the right counselor has to understand the lifestyle, not just the diagnosis.

Then we zoom out to the bigger identity question: what happens when the badge becomes the whole self, and how do you build a life outside law enforcement without losing the mission to serve? Along the way, we connect the dots between SWAT culture, leadership, business decision-making, and relationship-driven integrity that lasts longer than any single purchase or contract.

If you care about first responder mental health, proactive resilience, and real-world tools for longevity, hit play, share this with your team, and subscribe so you do not miss what we are building next.

TTPOA Partnerships:

Jorge Pastore Foundation

Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training. We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness. In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association.

https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/

The American Warrior Association

The American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.

https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs

The word “dynamic” gets thrown around like it means fast feet and reckless decisions, but that’s not what we see in real CQB. From the TTPOA conference floor in Round Rock, Texas, we take live questions and pull the conversation back to what actually keeps people alive: strong foundational skills, honest accountability, and the ability to move from task to task with zero delay when the fight starts.

We dig into what makes a shoot house useful for law enforcement training and what quietly sabotages learning, from obvious bullet traps to target setups that let people memorize “the right answer.” We talk about how to build a progression that develops visual discipline, decision-making, and scoring standards, plus why many real shootings look like officers “shooting the situation” instead of shooting their vision. If your team wants better performance, we argue you have to stop chasing fancy scenarios and rebuild the foundation that tactics sit on.

We also get very specific for the officers paying their own way. If you only have 100 rounds for a range day, we lay out a clear plan that balances predictive doubles, reactive shooting, movement, and a final live check of your dry work. And we close with a hard truth about culture: after action reviews only work when people own mistakes, cut excuses fast, and walk out as a stronger team.
If you would like to train with TTPOA, here is the training link: https://ttpoa.org/advanced-training

TTPOA Partnerships:

Jorge Pastore Foundation

Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training. We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness. In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association.

https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/

The American Warrior Association

The American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.

https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs

We sit down with Matt Pranka to talk night vision as a real capability for law enforcement and SWAT, not a gear flex. The thread that ties it all together is simple: hard skills built through honest training create calm decisions when real fights unfold at full speed.
• night vision training built around application and shooting fundamentals
• positive identification limits at distance under white light and IR
• offsets, lasers, illuminators, and repeating reps to expose errors
• dry fire and efficient practice for busy officers and instructors
• separating real training from social media content and empty “systems”
• CQB mindset differences between winning the fight and trying not to lose
• why patrol shootings happen fast and why speed must be trained
• debriefs that focus on what went wrong and how to move forward
• setting training conditions that allow mistakes early and reduce defects later
• process-driven improvement over shortcuts and “easy button” promises
• the gap between basic qualifications and real operational readiness

If you would like to train with TTPOA, here is the training link: https://ttpoa.org/advanced-training

TTPOA Partnerships:

Jorge Pastore Foundation

Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training. We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness. In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association.

https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/

The American Warrior Association

The American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.

https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs

In this episode, we had an inspiring conversation with Ed and Rick of Obsidian Spear Group. They shared their journey of starting a new company focused on law enforcement training after retirement, discussing what that experience has been like, how they’re giving back, and the valuable lessons they've learned along the way—lessons that have made them better professionals and people. “ That's Just Texas Talkin”

ED
Founder - Obsidian Spear Group

Ed dedicated over 21 years in U.S. Army special operations. He served in the 75th Ranger Regiment as a Recce Team Leader, Platoon Sergeant, and Small Unit Tactics Instructor, shaping the next generation of elite warriors.

In 2014, Ed was assigned to the United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC), where he operated globally as an Assaulter, Breacher, Sniper, and Senior Tactical Advisor. With multiple deployments around the world and deep combat experience, he now leads Obsidian Spear Group—bringing hard-earned lessons to those who face danger head-on

"I started Obsidian Spear Group in 2024 to continue a calling that began in the Regiment—mentoring warriors. Some of my most rewarding moments in the military came from training new Rangers, helping them become more lethal, more decisive, and more resilient in chaos. I saw that same need in the law enforcement and civilian world. OSG was born to pass on not just what I learned from success, but also the hard lessons from failure—to equip today’s protectors with the mindset, skill, and heart to thrive in the fight."

If you would like to train with TTPOA, here is the training link: https://ttpoa.org/advanced-training

If you would like to be a vendor at our Conference, here is the link: https://ttpoa.org/conferences/2026-ttpoa-conference/vendors

TTPOA Partnerships:

Jorge Pastore Foundation

Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training. We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness. In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association.

https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/

The American Warrior Association

The American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.

https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs

In this engaging episode, we talk with SOLGW co-founder Mike Mihalski and new CEO Nate Horvath about gun ownership in America, the creation of the most reliable AR platform, and the vision for SOLGW 2.0. Tune in for insights on the future of firearm innovation! A Texas gun company leading the way!

If you would like to train with TTPOA, here is the training link: https://ttpoa.org/advanced-training

If you would like to be a vendor at our Conference, here is the link: https://ttpoa.org/conferences/2026-ttpoa-conference/vendors

TTPOA Partnerships:

Jorge Pastore Foundation

Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training. We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness. In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association.

https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/

The American Warrior Association

The American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.

https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs

In the exciting series, we had the opportunity to sit down with Brian and Chancey from Reticence Group. We explored how practical shooting training can be effectively incorporated into SWAT team training. The discussion covered strategies for aligning training goals, overcoming common challenges, and fostering team buy-in. Listeners will gain valuable insights on building strong communication between trainers and SWAT Teams to create impactful, real-world shooting programs.

In Exciting series, we had the opportunity to sit down with Brain and Chancey from Reticence Group. We explore how practical shooting training can be effectively implemented in partnership with law enforcement leadership. It delves into strategies for aligning training goals with administrative priorities, overcoming common challenges, and fostering collaboration to enhance officer skills and safety. Listeners will gain insights on building strong communication between trainers and law enforcement agencies to create impactful, real-world shooting programs.

In this exciting series, we had the opportunity to sit down with Brian and Chancey from Reticence Group. They shared insights on how they train active and veteran officers in practical shooting. Both Bryan and Chancey are instrumental in teaching at a major metro police department, integrating a practical and performance-based shooting approach into their firearms training program to better prepare officers.

In this exciting series, we had the opportunity to sit down with Brian and Chancey from Reticence Group. They shared insights on how they train police recruits in practical shooting at the Academy. Both Bryan and Chancey are instrumental in teaching at a major metro police department, integrating a practical and performance-based shooting approach into their firearms training program to better prepare officers.

I sat down with Tanner and Coy. They and their teams are competing in this or any competition for the first time. We discuss lessons learned, equipment, training, and key takeaways to enhance your team's performance in real-world operations.

On day two of the 2025 SWAT competition, I sat down with the competition's directors: John Agnew, Sean Harris, and Jeff Kranz. We discussed the details of the event, pulling back the curtain on how the competitions are organized, where they will be held, lessons learned, ways to improve, the reasons behind the Competition, and the future of the SWAT and Sniper Challenge.

On Day 1 of the 2025 SWAT Competition, I sat down with two veteran competitors, Dave and Shaun. In this episode, we discuss the challenges of competing at a high level in our 50s. We also share lessons we've learned and explore how competition impacts and enhances our daily work and SWAT activities.

We had the honor of sitting down with Kim Pastore, the resilient wife of fallen Officer Jorge Pastore. Jorge, who served as a dedicated SWAT officer with the Austin Police Department, tragically lost his life while responding to a hostage rescue call on November 11, 2023. In this heartfelt and powerful podcast episode, Kim shares her story of that fateful day and the incredible journey she's embarked on since Jorge’s passing.

Her strength and determination shine through as she opens up about her experiences and emotions, revealing what an extraordinary and inspiring woman she truly is. Kim also founded the Jorge Pastore Foundation, an initiative dedicated to providing free training for law enforcement officers, ensuring that Jorge's legacy continues to make a difference. This conversation will leave you moved and inspired by Kim's unwavering spirit and dedication. Don’t miss it!

Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training. We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness. In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association.

https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/

The American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.

https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs

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In the episode, we discussed the practical aspects of pistol shooting with Sean Griffith and how that applies to law enforcement.

Sean began his shooting career in the United States Marine Corps in 2008 and has been involved in the fields of training and firearms since then. From 2010 to 2012, Sean served as a martial arts instructor for the USMC, where he realized his passion for teaching and helping others reach their own goals. In 2012, Sean exited the Marines and started a career in law enforcement. Sean served as an operational officer in Maryland from 2012-2015, where he gained valuable experience in the field while honing his own shooting skills through competition shooting within the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) and training on his own time. In 2015, Sean moved from the department’s Operations Section to their Training Unit and taught firearms and tactics full time to both law enforcement personnel as well as civilians deploying overseas.

In 2017, Sean accepted a 3-year transfer to teach firearms to federal, state, and local law enforcement officers and agents full-time. During this time, he continued to develop his skills in both instructional techniques as well as shooting skills. In 2018, Sean won the IDPA National Championship in the Stock Service Pistol Division and began competing in the United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) in March of 2018. By July of 2019, he had attained the rank of Grand Master, the highest shooter ranking available, in the Production Division. In November of 2019, Sean began competing with a red dot mounted pistol in the USPSA carry optics (CO) division, and by August of 2020, he had attained the rank of Grand Master in the CO division as well. Since then, Sean has had multiple top 12 finishes at the USPSA National Championship (top 12 qualifies for the "super squad" the following year).

Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training. We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness. In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association.

https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/

The American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.

https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs

Welcome to a first-time collaboration between the Iron Sights Podcast and the TTPOA Podcast.

Recorded during the Texas Tactical Police Officers Association (TTPOA) Annual Conference, this episode brings together TTPOA hosts Brandon and Matt, Chief Bryan Williams, and myself, Scott Howell, for an unfiltered and brutally honest conversation.

We get into the real challenges facing law enforcement today—from broken leadership and cultural barriers to the lack of proper training—and most importantly, we discuss the why behind those problems.

Chief Bryan Williams is known as a cops’ cop—a leader who trains with his people, speaks the hard truth, and refuses to sugarcoat the realities of modern policing. As a USPSA grandmaster shooter and someone who is actively creating change in his department, Bryan brings raw passion and hard-earned insight to the table. This conversation is everything people inside and outside the profession wish they could say out loud. It’s real, raw, and unfiltered, just the way Bryan wants it.

So buckle up, drop the ego, and get ready for an eye-opening episode that doesn’t hold back.

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Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

11:14 Brian Williams’ Background

14:31 Training Standards Matter

17:38 Leadership & Decision-Making

23:47 Systemic Issues In Leadership

37:15 Understanding Community Concerns

40:13 Officer Vs. Leadership Disconnect

44:54 Strong Leadership Examples

49:21 Community Policing & Perception

01:02:32 Real-World Training Gaps

01:11:10 Officer-Involved Shootings

01:18:09 Remembering The ‘Why’

01:29:33 Internal Vs. External Promotions

01:34:23 Mid-Level Management Issues

01:42:37 Community Accountability

01:51:13 SWAT Tactics & Evolution

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In the episode, we discussed the practical aspects of pistol shooting with Hwansik Kim. Hwansik talks about how important it is to be Vison Focus during shooting and other practical training methods.

We sat down with Scott Howell, a veteran health & Fitness Industry expert with over 25 years of hands-on experience as a Business Leader, Innovator, Educator, and Operator of hundreds of US health clubs, CEO of Red Dot Fitness, and host of Iron Sights Podcast.

In this episode, we sat down with Lead Faucet Tactical owner Dan Brokos and Lead Faucet Tactical Instructor Gabe Rivera to discuss CQB Marksmanship.

In this episode, we sat down with Lead Faucet Tactical owner Dan Brokos and Lead Faucet Tactical Instructor Gabe Rivera to discuss CQB Training Methodology.

https://leadfaucettactical.com/home-6362