Reality TV captures the excitement, but it leaves out the pressure, boredom, and psychological stress that shape real shooting performance. In this episode of Making Shooters Better, Terry Vaughan and Colin Gallagher share what really happens behind the scenes of Top Shot and how those lessons apply to smarter, more effective firearms training today.

A medical emergency at a training conference turned into a real-world test of preparation and teamwork. In this episode of Making Shooters Better, Terry Vaughan speaks with Devyn Austin-Johnson about the moments that mattered, the training that guided action, and the lessons every officer and civilian can take away. Watch the full conversation to hear how calm decisions and clear communication helped save a life.

What really happens to the body and mind under extreme stress? In this episode of Making Shooters Better, Tim Pearce shares how years in law enforcement and a life-altering tragedy exposed the gaps in traditional training—and why realistic, stress-based preparation is essential for survival. This conversation offers hard-earned insight into mindset, resilience, and training that reflects real-world conditions.

What happens to your shooting skills when stress, noise, and uncertainty hit all at once? In this episode of Making Shooters Better, Mike Willis shares practical insights on instinctive response training, situational awareness, and building confidence that carries beyond the range. This conversation explores how smarter, more realistic training prepares shooters for real-life decision-making when it matters most.

What does flying jets have to do with safer firearms training? In this episode of Making Shooters Better, airline pilot and innovator Mike Farrell explains how aviation culture, habit-building, and stress management can reshape how we teach shooting skills. From late-start learning to importing a Russian jet, this conversation is packed with practical lessons for instructors and everyday shooters alike.

Pressure and nerves affect every shooter, no matter their experience level. In this episode of Making Shooters Better, Olympic shooter Gabby Franco shares how she learned to manage self-doubt, reframe pressure, and build mental resilience that supports consistent performance. Read on for key takeaways, then watch the full conversation to hear Gabby’s insights in her own words.

In this episode, firearms instructor Candy Petticord shares practical guidance for new shooters — especially women — on choosing quality training, building real confidence, and developing a mindset that supports personal safety. Watch the full conversation to learn how thoughtful instruction and consistent practice create long-term empowerment.

In this episode, Michael DeGraeve shares how discipline, fitness, community involvement, and daily wins helped him rebuild his life after military service. Watch the full conversation to learn practical strategies for your own growth in the Making Shooters Better podcast Episode 4.

In this episode of Making Shooters Better, Matt Hickman of DryFire Mag shares his journey from law enforcement to training innovation, the value of dry fire practice, and how emerging tech like the SureStrikeMAG is changing shooter training. Watch now and take your fundamentals to the next level.

Discover how retired Green Beret Eric Torres turned a charity shooting match into a mission-driven organization that honors fallen service members and supports Gold Star families. Watch the full episode to hear his leadership insights, hear powerful stories of remembrance, and learn how you can get involved.