Carpool Karaoke For Guns? Meet the Viral Sensation, Charlie Cook!

Charlie Cook, the host of "Riding Shotgun with Charlie," discusses the origin of his popular podcast and video series, which he created after being inspired by Carpool Karaoke and blending his passion for guns with a new focus on video content. He shares his background as a musician, including opening for artists like Dolly Parton, and his long-time profession as a band teacher.Charlie details the rapid growth of his show, highlighting a pivotal moment in 2016 when an interview with Mark Walters led to a feature on Armed American Radio and a speaking opportunity at the Gun Rights Policy Conference.Beyond the show, Charlie teaches gun classes and creates viral "Gun Grams," where he plays the trumpet while shooting a firearm, showcasing his unique combination of talents. He also emphasizes the supportive nature of the gun community and outlines his goal to film an episode in every state.Links:Otis Technology (00:06.082): The podcast booth where the interview is being recorded.Shot Show 2025 (00:06.082): The trade show where the interview is taking place.Riding Shotgun with Charlie (00:30.933): Charlie Cook's video series and podcast.Carpool Karaoke (01:00.672): The TV show that inspired "Riding Shotgun with Charlie."Toastmasters (02:54.676): Organization where Charlie worked on his speaking and presenting skills.USCCA magazines (03:59.049): Magazine where a guest's husband's story was featured.Lessons from Unarmed America (04:08.575): Book by Rob Pinkus and Mark Walters.Armed American Radio (04:22.052): Mark Walters' nationally syndicated radio show.Gun Rights Policy Conference (GRPC) (05:24.322): Conference where Charlie was invited to speak.San Diego County Gun Owners (07:33.473): Group that hosted "Gun Prom."Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) (09:34.673): Charlie interviewed its founder, Alan Gottlieb, at the headquarters.YouTube (14:48.210): Where Charlie posts his "Gun Grams" videos.TikTok (14:48.210): Platform that banned some of Charlie's "Gun Grams" videos.Comedy Central's At Midnight (18:03.551): Game show that used one of Charlie's viral videos.Gunstreamer (21:55.776): Platform where "Riding Shotgun with Charlie" is posted.Rumble (21:55.776): Platform where "Riding Shotgun with Charlie" is posted.Spotify, I Heart, Apple Podcasts (22:04.226): Platforms where the show's audio is available.Armed Lifestyle Magazine (22:15.820): Magazine Charlie writes articles for, repurposing show content.News 2A (22:20.150): Website out of New Jersey Charlie writes for.Ammoland (22:28.851): Website that runs Charlie's show (requires him to write an accompanying article).GOA (Gun Owners of America) Goals (23:19.463): Event Charlie attended in Knoxville.Key takeaways: Niche Adaptation: A successful format from mainstream culture (like Carpool Karaoke) can be effectively adapted to a niche topic (like gun rights) to create unique content.The Power of Networking: A single high-value connection (like Mark Walters) can rapidly accelerate a new content creator's platform and exposure.Leverage Multiple Talents: Combining disparate