The Harden Up Podcast
All aspects of training are covered by former USMC infantryman, current SWAT Officer, and owner of OpTempo Training Group, Matt Harden. Topics and interviews will range from tactical, athletic, overlanding, and adventure sports. Become a better version of yourself with continual training!
Ep 44: Dennis Medina of Armored Breach
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/
@optempotraining on Instagram...
Ep 43: Law Enforcement Counter Terrorism at DARC
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 at https://www.youtube.com...
Ep 42: Zack Sowers- USCG Rescue Swimmer
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: https://www.uscg.mil/Join/<...
Ep 41: Mike O'Neil of San Jose PD MERGE
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 https://www.youtube.com/channel...
Ep 40: Dave Weidner- Veteran Law Enforcement Firearms Trainer
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
Find us on Youtube...
Ep 39: Yousef Sansour of Esoteric LLC- Part 2
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/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view...
EP 38: Pete Koch- Actor and Former NFL Defensive End
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
The OpTempo...
EP 37: Kenny Stone of Soldiers on Singletrack
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 website for an updated list of c...
