The Harden Up Podcast
"The Harden Up Podcast" brings you into the world of high-performance training and adventure through the expert lens of Matt Harden—a former USMC Infantry Squad Leader, veteran SWAT Team Leader, and founder of OpTempo Training Group. Each episode delivers compelling conversations with leading specialists across tactical operations, athletic development, overlanding expeditions, and extreme sports.Matt's military and law enforcement background provides the perfect foundation for extracting practical wisdom from his guests, offering listeners actionable strategies they can implement immediately. Whether you're a tactical professional, outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone looking to elevate your performance and push beyond comfort zones, th...
Ep 54: Cory Nykoluk of 5.11 and First Tactical
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In this episode, we sit down with industrial design expert Cory Nykoluk, the innovative force behind some of the tactical gear industry's most revolutionary products. Cory shares his journey from being the first employee at First Tactical to his influential tenure as Design Director at 5.11 Tactical, where he created the iconic Rush 24 backpack that redefined tactical gear standards.
The conversation explores Cory's design philosophy of "Neat Clean Professional" and how it shaped entire product lines and brand identities. Listeners will gain insights into the creative process behind tactical equipment development, from...
Ep 53: Wells Jones: Navy Veteran and World Adventurer
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In this episode, we sit down with Wells Jones—a Navy veteran, former Antarctic pararescueman, actor, author, and world traveler. Wells shares his incredible journey from military service in some of the harshest environments on Earth to his time in front of the camera and an unforgettable expedition through the Middle East that became the foundation for his latest book.
We talk about:
His path to becoming a Navy pararescuemanWhat it's like operating in the extreme conditions of AntarcticaThe transition from military life to acting and storytellingLessons learned fr...Ep 52: Maj Jason Attinger: USAF PJ & A-10 Pilot
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My guest today is a U.S. Air Force Major, whose remarkable career spans both special operations and combat aviation. He spent over a decade as a Pararescue specialist (PJ), leading high-profile rescue missions in Iraq and Afghanistan before becoming the Director of Training for the PJ program. Driven by his passion for flight, he transitioned to the cockpit of the A-10, logging over 760 hours of combat operations. Now an instructor pilot and Wings Plans Officer for the 124th Fighter Wing, my guest brings a wealth of experience and insight. Please enjoy this...
Ep 33: Mark Aguilar-Police Detective Veteran
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In this episode Matt talks with Mark Aguilar, a current Police detective working in a an elite tactical surveillance unit. Listen in as Mark recounts his 28-year law enforcement journey and the lessons learned along the way. From patrol in south central L.A. to celebrity personal security details and to the pinnacle of the tactical surveillance game, this episode runs the gamut. Enjoy!
Flashbang Earplugs
https://www.fbearplugs.com/
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:
https://optempotraining.com/
<...
Ep 51: Matt Klein- NYPD Detective (Ret) and Battle Tribe Founder
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In this episode I welcome Army combat veteran Matt Klein to the show! Matt is a retired NYPD Forensic sketch artist who used his artistic gifts and abilities to help solve multiple high-profile homicide and assault investigations. After his time in the military and law enforcement, Matt founded his creative project Battle Tribe! His engaging artwork blends elements of military, L.E. and pop culture in multiple media styles. Please enjoy the show!
Matt Klein on Instagram: @mattrendar
Battle Tribe website: https://www.etsy.com/shop...
Ep 50: Rex Ingram- Police Chief
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In this episode I welcome our first Police Chief to the show, Chief Rex R. Ingram from the Caldwell Idaho police department. He has an extensive background from his 17 years at LAPD, where he worked on gang enforcement teams, a human trafficking task force, plainclothes operations, and patrol watch commander in some of LA’s toughest areas. He spoke candidly with me about leadership in policing, elevating LE performance and how administrators can support their officers. Please enjoy this conversation with Chief Rex R. Ingram!
Chief Ingram on Instagram: @cpdingram...
Ep 49: Mark Lang of Brinc Drones
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In this episode Matt talks with a law enforcement SWAT veteran, Mark Lang. He served for 23 years on a full-time SWAT team, specializing in the sniper billet. Mark is the director of sniper training for Tac Flow Academy and teaches for TTPOA and NTOA. Mark now works for BRINC drones and advocates for the use of drones in SWAT and patrol operations. Listen in as Mark talks about SWAT culture, the use of technology in L.E. and the future integration of DFR. Please enjoy the show!
Brinc Drones:
...
Ep 48: CDR Bill Burwell- USCG Rescue Pilot
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In this episode Matt talks with an active duty United States Coast Guard search and rescue pilot, Commander Bill Burwell. He has served over 18 years with assignments as duty pilot, instructor pilot and chief of aviation operations. Listen in as Bill dives into the challenges of rotary-wing flying, hair-raising rescue missions, and extreme duty stations Please enjoy the show!
Video of perilous rescue recounted by Bill in the episode:
https://www.dvidshub.net/video/640450/coast-guard-rescues-4-fishermen-60-miles-off-maine-coast
Learn more about Coast Guard aviation careers: https...
EP 47: Standing Offhand on Police Snipers
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In this episode Matt talks with two guests, Jeff Chang - a police sniper/instructor and also a former Marine Corps sniper. Tyler Ellsworth is also a police sniper/instructor and owner/operator of Standing Offhand with co-owner Jeff. In this episode we discuss the Trump shooting incident, the police sniper mission, and selecting good candidates. Please enjoy the show!
Standing Offhand:
https://www.standingoffhand.com/
Social: @standing_offhand
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:
https://optempotraining.com/<...
Ep 46: Mike Kelly- USCG Rescue Swimmer Instructor
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In this episode Matt talks with an active duty United States Coast Guard rescue swimmer instructor. Mike served as a rescue swimmer for ten years prior to being selected as an instructor at the aviation survival technician (AST) school- one of the most stressful environments in military training. Listen in as Mike breaks down the selection process, testing and ultimate success criteria to join the elite USCG AST ranks! Please enjoy the show!
Rescue swimmer career overview:
https://youtu.be/zP0eOCHTGis
Learn more about Coast Guard rescue swimmer c...
Ep 45: Jason Clark of BeaverFit USA
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In this episode Matt has an in-depth conversation with the Beaverfit USA director of training and education, Jason Clark. Jason is a combat Marine Corps veteran and former drill instructor. He later went on to work in the fitness industry and then as a strength and conditioning director for the Marie Corps HITT program. He also served on the advisory board for human performance at HQ Marine Corps. Please enjoy the show!
BeaverFit USA:
IG: @beaverfitusa
https://beaverfitusa.com/
The OpTempo Training Group website...
Ep 44: Dennis Medina of Armored Breach
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In this episode Matt speaks with the inventor and founder of the guardian breaching shield, Dennis Medina. The company Armored Breach was formed as Dennis worked as a full-time SWAT Officer and mechanical breaching expert. Listen in as Matt and Dennis discuss SWAT training, trends, and the value of ballistic shields in operations. Please enjoy the show!
Armored Breach and Dennis Medina:
IG: @armoredbreach
https://www.armoredbreach.com/
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:
https://optempotraining.com/
<...
Ep 43: Law Enforcement Counter Terrorism at DARC
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In this episode Matt reviews his recent visit to the direct action resource center for the level two law enforcement counter terrorism course. Hear about his experience at the course, gear selection, and tips for your training visit. Please enjoy the show!
Direct Action Resource Center:
IG: @directactionresourcecenter
https://darc-usa.squarespace.com/
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:
https://optempotraining.com/
@optempotraining on Instagram and Facebook
Find us on Youtube...
Ep 42: Zack Sowers- USCG Rescue Swimmer
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In this episode Matt talks with an active duty United States Coast Guard rescue swimmer and learns more about their training and operations. AST Zack Sowers shares his insight into the difficult training pipeline to become an aviation survival technician (AST) and the moments of his first open ocean rescue, and his most recent save of six survivors. Please enjoy the show!
Recent ocean save link: https://themaritimepost.com/2023/12/carnival-vista-rescue-at-sea/
https://weather.com/en-IN/india/videos/video/dramatic-rescue-coast-guard-and-cruise-ship-save-twelve-lives-stranded-in-the
Learn more about Coast Guard careers: ...
Ep 41: Mike O'Neil of San Jose PD MERGE
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In this episode Matt talks with the team commander of San Jose Police Department's full-time SWAT team , MERGE. Listen in to Mike's story covering his extensive law enforcement career in a multitude of assignments. Mike now commands MERGE and discusses team dynamics, selection and training, and the challenges of leading a team. Please enjoy the show!
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:
https://optempotraining.com/
@optempotraining on Instagram and Facebook
Find us on Youtube at <...
Ep 40: Dave Weidner- Veteran Law Enforcement Firearms Trainer
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In this episode Matt has an in-depth conversation with Dave Weidner, a veteran Police Officer and trainer. Dave has a progressive ideology when it comes to firearms training and brings some of the nation's best trainers to his facility, where he supervises his agency firearms program. Dave is dedicated to providing cutting-edge training to his staff and deputies. Please enjoy the show!
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:
https://optempotraining.com/
@optempotraining on Instagram and Facebook
<...
Ep 39: Yousef Sansour of Esoteric LLC- Part 2
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Yousef Sansour, a law enforcement veteran, counter-terrorism expert, and USPSA grand master, returns to the show. In this episode Yousef and Matt discuss trainging ideologies, SWAT team operations and the hostage rescue course Yousef presents. Enjoy the show!
Yousef Sansour
Instagram: @esoteric_llc
https://esotericllc.com/
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:
https://optempotraining.com/
@optempotraining on Instagram and Facebook
Find us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel...
EP 38: Pete Koch- Actor and Former NFL Defensive End
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In this episode Matt talks with former NFL defensive end Pete Koch about his athletic journey from high school, college, and the NFL. Pete dives deep into the mindset and attributes of the key coaches that fueled his success. Pete also shares his memorable experience filming the movie "Heartbreak Ridge" with Clint Eastwood and other active duty Recon Marines. Pete is now a successful personal fitness trainer that helps hundreds of everyday folks attain their fitness goals. Enjoy!
Pete Koch
http://petekoch.com/
IG/Youtube/Linkedin: @petekoch<...
EP 37: Kenny Stone of Soldiers on Singletrack
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In this episode Matt talks with Kenny Stone, an Army combat veteran and founder of the non-profit Soldiers on Singletrack (SOS). After multiple combat tours, Kenny returned home to civilian life and the associated loss of purpose and camaraderie. in search of therapy, Kenny dusted off his mountain bike and began seeing drastic mental and physical benefits from riding. He then founded SOS and created a community of fellow riders in search of healing and camaraderie.Soldiers on Singletrack
https://soldiersonsingletrack.org/
IG:
The OpTempo Training Group w...
Ep 36: Travis Gribble- SWAT Veteran and advocate
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In this episode Matt has an in-depth conversation with Travis Gribble, a fellow SWAT Officer, about LE life, training, and the personal toll of the job. The conversation dives deep into the psychological and emotional challenges of working the streets day in and day out. Travis also details his personal account of an incident that shocked the conscience of all on scene and took years to overcome. Travis now shares his story nationally to inspire other Officers to talk about and deal with their own struggles without fear of alienation.
T...
Ep 35: Brad Frederick of Kinetic Concepts Group
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In this episode Matt talks with Brad, a Marine Corps veteran, Police Officer and CEO of Kinetic Concepts Group. Brad has worked multiple assignments to include parol, SWAT, and plainclothes street teams. During his time on the job, Brad has identified multiple tactical problems Officers face and has found methods to address them. Listen to Matt and Brad as they dive deep into LE training trends and how quality instructors are making a difference.
Kinetic Concepts
https://www.kineticconceptsgroup.com/
IG: @kineticconcepts_group
The OpTempo...
Ep 34: Mike Ott- Ballistic Shield Innovator
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In this episode Matt talks with Mike Ott, a Police veteran with years 18 years of experience. Mike held multiple assignments to include SWAT, firearms instructor and K9 handler. During this time Mike gained valuable knowledge and insight to the construction and use of ballistic shields. After his law enforcement career, Mike moved on to working directly with armor manufacturers such as First Choice and Point Blank Enterprise. Mike's experience enabled him to design and test multiple shield sizes and shapes to greatly enhance operator use. Mike currently is the vice president of sales a...
Ep 32: Heather Brent- Blackhawk Crew Chief
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In this episode Matt talks with Heather Brent, a former television new journalist and now Army Blackhawk helicopter crew chief. Listen in as they discuss the struggles of being a young, single mom, professional who later decides to switch careers. Hear Heather's story as she recounts the change from journalism to working with various non-profits and ultimately joining the Army reserve aviation program. Enjoy the show!
Heather Brent
Instagram and other social platforms: @heather_brent
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of...
Ep 31: Sal Hernandez- SWAT Cop and Tactical Games athlete
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In this episode Matt talks with Sal Hernandez, a law enforcement SWAT Officer and Tactical Games athlete. Listen in as they discuss the journey of becoming a SWAT Officer and the continual training that keeps teams sharp. Sal also recounts his deployment down to Uvalde as a supporting SWAT team. Sal is also an accomplished Tactical Games athlete, with more than 10 podium finishes in the elite men's division. Enjoy the show!
Sal Hernandez
Instagram: @sh_mander
https://www.thetacticalgames.com/
https://www.floridaswat.org/swat-round-up
Ep 30: Yousef Sansour of Esoteric LLC
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In this episode Matt talks with Yousef Sansour, a law enforcement veteran, counter-terrorism expert, and USPSA grand master. He spent years working with multiple government agencies on counter-terrorism missions after 9-11 while serving as a SWAT Officer. Over the 28+ years of his career he gained a vast amount of knowledge that he now passes on to current law enforcement professionals. Yousef now owns and operates the training organization Esoteric LLC. Enjoy the show!
Yousef Sansour
Instagram: @esoteric_llc
https://esotericllc.com/
The OpTempo Training Group w...
Ep 29: Chris on Active Shooter Response
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In this episode Matt talks with one of the OpTempo instructors about active shooter events. Listen in as Chris, a law enforcement active shooter subject matter expert, discusses the history of active shooter incidents, the evolution of the law enforcement response, and what you can do to be better prepared for the unthinkable.
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:
https://optempotraining.com/
@optempotraining on Instagram and Facebook
Find us on Youtube at https://www.youtube...
EP 28: Byron Rogers of Protector Nation
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In this episode Matt sits down with Byron Rodgers, a Marine Corps combat veteran and 10-year Executive Protection professional. He has travelled the world working with high-level clients, while gaining a wealth of knowledge in the EP space. Byron is a successful entrepreneur that owns and operates The Bravo Research Group, Protector Nation, and the Executive Protection Lifestyle podcast. Enjoy the show!
Byron Rodgers
Instagram: @byron_rodgers
https://www.bravoresearchgroup.com
https://go.protectornation.com/free48207980
The Executive Protection Lifestyle podcast
The...
EP 27: Tom Rizzo of Street Cop Training
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In this episode Matt talks with Tom Rizzo, a Street Cop Training instructor and 20-year law enforcement veteran. Tom gained valuable knowledge serving on patrol, crime suppression units, and as academy and department instructor. Tom has also been an adjunct professor with new jersey university and Rutgers school of public affairs and administration. He’s the author of the book “COPIKAZE” and currently serves as the investigations division commander as a captain.
Tom Rizzo
Instagram: @tomrizzo70
https://www.thomasrizzo.com/
https://streetcoptraining.com/
The Op...
Ep 26: Jeff Chang of Standing Offhand
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In this episode Matt talks with Jeff Chang, a Police sniper subject matter expert. Jeff is a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran who deployed to two wars as a scout sniper and a private contractor. Jeff also spent the last 12 years on a major metropolitan SWAT team, finishing his time as the sniper team leader. Listen in as Jeff shares his story about being a sniper and going from military to law enforcement service, with all the lessons learned.
Standing Offhand
Instagram & Facebook: @standing_offhand
https://www.s...
Ep 25: Nick Thayer of The Tactical Games
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On this episode Matt talks with Nick Thayer, the marketing manager of The Tactical Games. Nick is a United States Coast Guard Veteran who spent 10 years in the defense contracting industry after RELAD. He later became a CrossFit coach, photographer, and ultimately competed in The Tactical Games.
Listen in as Nick and Matt discuss the background, history, and details of the Tactical Games. Matt and the OpTempo team competed at a recent Tactical Games and saw first hand how fun these events are. We highly encourage you to check out their calendar...
Ep 24: Maj (Ret.) Will Ostan of Arc of Justice
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On this episode Matt talks with the President and CEO of Arc of Justice USA, Maj (Ret.) Will Ostan. He served over 12 years in the U.S. Army as a JAG attorney, completing combat deployments with the 10th Mountain Division, 7th Special Forces Group, and Navy SEAL Team 5. In 2019 Will launched Arc of Justice, Advocates of Wounded Warriors. Their mission is to reforming the military's medical separation process via a Wounded Warrior Bill of Rights (WWBoR). Listen to Will's military journey and why a WWBoR is so vital. We highly encourage supporting this non...
Ep 23: Kara "The Huntress" of Deliverfund
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On this episode Matt talks with one of the nation’s leading human trafficker hunters, Kara Smith. She spent 12 years working in intelligence analysis in support of anti-terrorism. Starting her career in the air force, and then moving on to the NSA and FBI, she has taken those skills and now uses them to combat human trafficking with Deliverfund. Kara shares detailed information on the widespread human trafficking problem, and how criminals are preying upon our children, friends, and neighbors. You'll be amazed at how prevalent this truly is. We highly encourage supporting th...
Ep 22: Taylor Mccubbin of ChimeraXR
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Taylor McCubbin is the CEO and co-founder of ChimeraXR. He is a 15 year veteran of the Canadian military. He worked as a full time firearms instructor at the largest air base in Canada and developed the first firearms and tactical simulation program for the air force. He later went on to work for Meggitt Training systems, the world’s largest firearms simulation manufacturer. A few years later he and a partner launched ChimeraXR and are now at the cutting edge of virtual reality training. ChimeraXR Mythos is a virtual reality training system which gi...
Ep 21: Kenny Williams of Street Cop Training
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Sergeant Kenny Williams is one of the country’s leading experts in criminal vehicle interdiction. Sergeant Williams began his career in 2007, and currently works as a full time K9 interdiction officer. Williams has been personally responsible for the seizure of over 4 million dollars cash, several hundred pounds of illicit narcotics, and well over a ton of Marijuana. Williams has received countless awards for his work from numerous organizations and has established a national reputation. Williams is a fully certified EPIC and DIAP instructor.
Street Cop Training:
https://streetcoptraining.com/
Ep 20: Dr Justin Smith of Tactical Neuroscience
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Dr Justin Smith is a research Psychologist who has done groundbreaking work in the area of stress and anxiety in tactical applications. Justin performed PhD work in decision-making under life and death circumstances and how it relates to stress. His findings apply to Law Enforcement, Military, and high level Athletes.
Tactical Neuroscience:
https://tacticalneuro.com/
Instagram: @tacticalneuroscience
Delivefund: https://deliverfund.org/
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:
https://optempotraining.com/
@optempotraining on Instagram a...
EP 19: Scott Brady of Overland Journal
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Scott is an adventure driver and consultant who has worked on various specialty-vehicle projects for auto manufacturers, aftermarket companies, and television producers such as Top Gear. He is a passionate photographer and writer with international credits, the only American to have won the esteemed Outback Challenge, Morocco, and a Tread Lightly Master Trainer. Business ventures during the past decade include the Overland Society, Expeditions West, Expedition Portal, and Overland Journal. He has traveled through over 60 countries and across every continent. His most current project, Expeditions 7, is a round-the-world overland odyssey in two 78 Series...
Ep 18: Direct Action Resource Center
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In this episode Matt shares his experience at the Direct Action Resource Center. Listen in on tips for how to prepare, what to expect, and overall take-aways from the course. Matt aso covers his personal gear list used for the course.
Direct Action Resource Center
IG: @DARC1
Website:
https://darc-usa.squarespace.com/
Links for gear used at DARC:
First Tactical Defenders: use discount code "optempo25"
https://www.firsttactical.com/products/mens-defender-pants-od-green
LWRC IC carbine: https://www.lwrci.com/IC-Enhanced-556...
Ep 17: Tony Blauer of Blauer Spear System
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In this episode Matt talks with legendary self-defense coach Tony Blauer on the science of a fight and violence. Join them for a discussion on physiological response, stress inoculation, and being a better trainer. Tony dives deep into fear management and Police defensive tactics training during this eye opening conversation!
Free e-book "Get to know Fear" : https://getknowfear.com/ebook
Tony Blauer
IG: @tonyblauer
@spear.system
Websites:
https://www.blauertrainingsystems.com
https://blauerspear.com/
Training Calendar: https://b...
Ep 16: Mike Nguyen- Ambush on Police Survivor
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Join us as we talk with Mike Nguyen about his intense account of his Officer-involved shooting that nearly killed him. We discuss that fateful day that changed his life forever, his road to recovery, and the resilient mindset that brought him back to full duty!
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:
https://optempotraining.com/
@optempotraining on Instagram and Facebook
Find us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view...
Ep 15: Deliver Fund- The Fight Against Human Trafficking
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Listen and learn about the dark world of human trafficking from senior targeting analyst Shane Erikson of the non-profit Deliver Fund. We take a look at the modern methods criminals of human trafficking are using to prey upon our children, friends, and neighbors. You'll be amazed at how prevalent this truly is. We highly encourage supporting this organization with a donation on their website.
Deliver Fund
IG: @DeliverFund
https://www.deliverfund.org/
The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:<...
