Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk
by Matt Shomo
Hosted by a couple of old school military vets. Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk podcast is a raw, unfiltered space where men have honest conversations about whiskey, hunting, fishing, guns, the real battles they face in life, family, and mental health and have fun and laugh!
Episodes
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Ep 36_ Priorities: God, Family, Country
In this episode of Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk, Matt and Hayden discuss the challenges of balancing life, family, and their podcast commitments. They emphasize the importance of prioritizing God, family, and country, and share personal experiences regarding faith and spirituality. The...
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Ep 35_ Matt and Hayden Back Together in Person!
In this lively episode, Matt and Hayden reunite in Mississippi, sharing their adventures filled with fishing, bourbon tasting, and local cuisine. They explore the history of Crittenden's Bourbon, discuss the nuances of fishing in the Gulf, and reflect on life changes as they approach retirement....
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Suicide Awareness Month Wk2_Upstream: Stopping the Drift Before the Edge
This episode focuses on suicide prevention, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health issues before they escalate. Matt discusses the gradual nature of despair, the necessity of self-care, and the importance of recognizing signs of distress in loved ones. Building a supportive...
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Ep 34_Zero Your Sights: Getting Back to Basics
In Episode 34, Matt and Hayden discuss their recent experiences with football, including college and NFL games, and transition into a conversation about bourbon, specifically Buffalo Trace. They explore the concept of mission creep, emphasizing the importance of simplicity in tasks and life. The...
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Ep 33_Tactical Blunders and Barrel Proof: Stories We Probably Shouldn't Tell
In this episode of Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk, Matt shares lighthearted stories and humorous blunders from his military training while tasting Old Granddad 114 whiskey. He discusses the importance of enjoying whiskey in a way that suits personal preferences, debunks common whiskey myths, and...
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Suicide Prevention Month Wk 1_The Lifeline No One Asks To Be: Answering the Call
It's September! In this special episode for Suicide Prevention Month, Matt discusses the complexities of supporting individuals through their darkest times, emphasizing the emotional toll it takes on caregivers. He highlights the importance of understanding compassion fatigue, the weight of...
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Clip from Ep 32: Investing in Quality Hunting Gear
Check out this clip from Episode 32, Prepping for Hunting Season, where Hayden and Matt talk about the importance of having quality gear. Watch the entire show on all platforms today!
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Ep 32_ Prepping for Hunting Season
In this episode, Matt and Hayden discuss their recent personal experiences, including fishing trips and preparations for the upcoming hunting season. They delve into the challenges of adapting to different climates for hunting, the importance of selecting the right gear, and the rising costs...
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Clip from Episode 30: Join Matt as he shares with Hayden His Trauma Recovery Journey!
Matt shares his journey of overcoming trauma in this clip from Episode 30! Check out the full episode on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, Amazon, IHeart Radio and all platforms!
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1:13 Hanging out with Medal of Honor Recipient Drew Dix
Check out this clip from Episode 31 where I meet Medal of Honor Recipient Drew Dix at a bottling event at Pine Bluffs Distilling! It's out on all platforms now!
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Ep 31_Bottling Whiskey with a Medal of Honor Recipient: Drew Dix
In this episode, Matt and Hayden discuss Matt's upcoming retirement and a unique experience he had with Drew Dix, a Medal of Honor winner. They delve into Dix's heroic actions during the Vietnam War, his transition to civilian life, and the whiskey bottling event at Pine Bluffs Distilling. The...
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Ep 30_Matt and Hayden Return: Whiskey in the Wind
In Episode 30, Matt and Hayden share personal updates, discuss their recent experiences with technology, family, and self-improvement, and explore their favorite bourbons and whiskey collections. They emphasize the importance of routine, mental health, and reconnecting with loved ones as key to a...
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WWRT is Back!
Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk is back! We apologize for going dark. Matt shares his recent personal struggles with past trauma and mental health, explaining the reasons behind the podcast's brief hiatus and his journey. Stay tuned next week, Aug 19, for Episode 30 with both Matt and Hayden!
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Ep 29_Barrel Pick Bottling: House of High Proof with Pine Bluff's Distilling
In Episode 29, Matt shares his recent experience at Pine Bluffs Distillery, highlighting the sense of community within the bourbon world. He discusses a unique barrel pick with Chris from House of High Proof Whiskey Society and Mary Powers from Mile High Spirits. He participated in the process of...
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Clip from Ep 28: Chris's "Just Go" moment!
In this short clip from Episode 28, Chris shares the moment he knew it was time to walk away from the military so he could focus on his family.
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Ep 28_Beer 30: A Fun Shotgun Episode That's All Over the Place!
In Episode 28, Matt brings on fellow Air Force member and close friend Chris Aistrop to talk about everything from Chris's decision of choosing his family over the Air Force, leadership and how things have changed since they both enlisted to football and wild stories of their high school days.…
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Independence Day: Happy 250th Birthday America!_4 July 2026
Happy 250th Birthday America! July 4th is always a special day for us at Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk! Thank you to those that have fought for this great nation and to those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom! Have a safe and happy holiday celebrating our freedom! MERICA! God...
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EP 27_Fly Fishing: America's 250th Birthday (Apologies for the bad video quality.)
Fly fishing, Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk style! Join Matt fly fishing in Laramie, Wyoming. In episode 27, Matt talks about the importance of finding solace in hobbies and enjoying the outdoors as he fishes for trout on the Laramie River. The connection of the mind, body and spirit is real so…
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Dad's Unconditional Support: Parenting Adult Children
There are no technical orders or instruction manuals when it comes to parenting, especially when it comes to our adult kids. Check this Saturday message out about a situation I dealt with involving my son.
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Ep 26_The Future of WWRT: Upcoming Episodes
In Episode 26 Matt sips on Talnua Single Pot Still American Whiskey distilled in Colorado that's a store pick from Cantina Liquors in Wellington, Colorado. He talks about the future of Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk, updates on the status of getting Hayden back live on the show and a future...
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Clip from Ep 25_Dad's Hug: A Father's Moment of Clarity
Check out the full episode of "Battle in the Sandbox: High Proof Parenting" on all platforms including YouTube, Spotify, Apple, Amazon Music and IHeart Radio!
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Ep25 _The Battle of the Sandbox: High Proof Parenting
In Episode 25, Matt brings on his good friend Tommy Thomas, an Air Force Security Forces Investigator who is married with 3 boys, to discuss the struggles of raising kids and being a husband. They talk about the high proof version of themselves and how they have to "add some water" or "lower…
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Why This Rare Bourbon Costs $7,000 LEAKS & LOSS!_ Clip from Ep 24
Have you watched Episode 24, "Double Eagle Very Rare"? Here's a clip about the unicorn rare bottle I was able to get my hands on recently. What rare or unicorn bottles have you been able to acquire? Let us know in the comments! Check out the full episode on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, Amazon Music,...
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Ep 24_Double Eagle Very Rare Bourbon Unboxing
In Episode 24 Matt reveals his latest rare find, Double Eagle Very Rare. He sips on Fidler Antique, a Brewzle pick, that TJ and his team dropped in May while he talks about the history of his unicorn bottle Double Eagle Very Rare, discussing why it is so rare and expensive as well as going into…
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From Trauma to Triumph: Distilling Resilience_ Clip From Episode 23
In this clip from Episode 23, Matt discusses how small batch distilling correlates to resilience and overcoming trauma and PTSD. Watch the full Episode on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, Amazon, IHeart Radio and all podcast platforms!
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Overcoming Darkness: Your Inner Strength Revealed_Clip from Ep 23
In this short clip from Episode 23 Matt talks about overcoming the darkness and conquering your demons is the biggest step in overcoming trauma.
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Ep 23_Distilling Resilience: How Small Batch Crafting Mirrors My Journey Through Post Traumatic Growth
Why does the finest spirit require the most heat and the courage to start over from scratch? Most people fear the pressure of adversity, but small-batch crafting proves that transformation is impossible without it. In Episode 23 Matt dives into the art of distillation to show you how resilience…
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Clip from Episode 22-Find Work: Small Tasks, Big Success, Start Your Day Right!
In this short clip from Episode 22: Find Work, Matt and Hayden talk about the importance of starting your day with completing a task. You want to be successful, "Make Your Bed!" Finding work and accomplishing small tasks throughout your day leads to greater success!
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Episode 22_Find Work: The Value of Hard Work and Discipline
In Episode 22, Matt and Hayden discuss the value of hard work and always looking for what needs to be done. They tie this to the military, civilian jobs and in life. Having skills and intelligence is great but if there is no work ethic to back it up its all for nothing. The Warrior hosts give...
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Podcast Idea Born Over Drinks, Our Journey Begins: Episode 21 Clip
In this short clip from Episode 21, Matt and Hayden share how Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk was born. They are all about real, raw, and being open and honest. Check out the full episode on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, Amazon Music, IHeart Radio, and all podcast platforms!
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Happy 21st Episode! Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk's 21st Birthday Celebration!
Help us celebrate our 21st Episode! WWRT is 21 and legal to drink! It's all because of you! Thank you for your support! Join Matt and Hayden as they reminisce on past episodes, discuss how why they created the podcast and talk about their plans for the future! We pour Old Forester 2025 Birthday...
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Mayday: A Thirty-Minute Check-Fire_Break the Stigma_Save Lives
Mental Health is our most critical sector. Mental Health Awareness isn't just a buzzword for May; it's a daily survival skill. We treat Emotional Intelligence (EQ) like a piece of gear that you have to keep clean and functional. I break down the statistics like the reality that men account for...
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Police Week_ A Week to Honor and Celebrate the Heroes That Paid the Ultimate Sacrifice_Episode 20
This week, May 10-May 16, is National Police Week. Established in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy. Police week is dedicated to honoring and celebrating law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. All police agencies across the country take time to stop and remember...
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Hayden's Fishing Trip and His Visit to Mississippi
Hayden is back! In Episode 19 Hayden shares stories from fishing camp in West Virginia and his drip down to Mississippi. Matt and Hayden talk about the importance of good friends and never "being the smartest on in the room".
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Kinder Gentler with Special Guest USAF Retired MSgt Joe Teresi
Matt brings on special guest who is a close friend and past coworker Retired Air Force Master Sergeant Joe Teresi. Joe was a dog handler in security forces; he served 20 years. Matt and Joe discuss the differences in how they were raised as kids to today's generation. Leading both airmen…
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Whiskey Tasting with Matt
While Hayden is down in Mississippi setting up his housing for his permanent move down south, Matt walks through his go to bottles he pours regularly. In Episode 17, Matt talks about what he tastes when sipping on Buffalo Trace, Bulleit 10 year, and Horse Soldier Barrel Select 10 year. Join Matt...
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Whiskey In The Wind: Off The Rails!
Episode 16 is an off the cuff episode where your Whiskey Warriors go "Off the Rails" and talk about anything and everything that comes to mind! Join Matt and Hayden as they pour Noble Oak and talk about whiskey, football, shooting guns, hunting and hanging out with friends.
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Clip from Whiskey in the Wind: The Accuracy of the AK47
Matt and Hayden disagree about the accuracy of the AK47.
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Fresh Perspective: With Special Guest SSgt Nick Figueroa
In Episode 15, Matt and Hayden are joined by one of Hayden's close friends and military brother Nick Figueroa. Nick is a Security Forces member (Defender) and K9 handler with almost 8 years of service. They pour 2024 Thomas Handy Sazerac Rye whiskey and talk about Nick's experiences in the Air...
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Easter Message_ 5 Apr 26
Matt breaks down what Easter means to him and how it is much more basic than most believe.
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Military Spouses: The Struggles and the Bonds - With Special Guests
In Episode 14, Matt and Hayden bring on two very special guests, military spouses, Jean Granger and Sannah Figueroa. They discuss what it's like being a military spouse, the struggles of being left behind to keep the family intact while their husbands are deployed or working long hours. Jean and...
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Old Skool: Taking it Back to the Basics!
In Episode 13, Matt and Hayden pour EH Taylor Small Batch as they talk about old school ways and how they still work even in today's modern society. Getting back to basics is just what the doctor ordered according to them. They get into hunting and using basic guns such as lever action rifles and...
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The Internal Compass: Mapping the Mind
In Episode 12 Matt and Hayden get deep in discussing Emotional Intelligence. Although society tells us it's a sign of weakness in reality it shows maturity and depth in a person. This is a real talk discussion about men's mental health on a tactical level!
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Location Location Location! Family on the Move
In Episode 11, Matt and Hayden discuss places their military career has sent them as well as places they have visited. They talk about how they have had to adapt to their environment and how that has affected them and their families.
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Pine Bluffs Distillery
Matt and Hayden talk about Pine Bluffs Distillery in Pine Bluffs Wyoming. In this episode they discuss Pine Bluffs whiskey and an event the distillery is putting on to promote mental health awareness.
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Iron Sharpens Iron, Every Man Needs a Council of Trusted Mentors with Special Guest, USAF Retired CMSgt Todd Powell
Matt and Hayden bring on a special guest, United States Air Force Retired Chief Master Sergeant Todd Powell to discuss why every man needs trusted mentors and how important it is for personal growth. They also dive into what it means to be a mentor and how it's as simple as being a good person.
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Episode 9: The Peat Monster and Facing Discomfort, Choose Your Hard!
In this episode Matt and Hayden talk about the importance of being ok to be uncomfortable and choosing to do the hard things.
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Episode 8: The Locker Room Mentality
Matt and Hayden discuss the importance of feeling comfortable letting out your inner child, being vulnerable and how it builds comradery.
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Word Of The Week: Perspective: You Got This Brother!_ Short Episode
Matt leans in on overcoming the weight of life and speaks to those struggling with personal burdens and inner demons.
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Episode 7: The Solera & Building a Legacy
In Episode 7, Matt and Hayden discuss what they are teaching the next generation and how they instill values and teach life lessons to their kids.
About this show
Hosted by a couple of old school military vets. Warriors and Whiskey Real Talk podcast is a raw, unfiltered space where men have honest conversations about whiskey, hunting, fishing, guns, the real battles they face in life, family, and mental health and have fun and laugh!
Hosted by
Matt Shomo