Bourbon and Ballistics

When the call comes in, there’s no hesitation... only action.In this episode of the Bourbon & Ballistics Podcast, we sit down with a Battalion Chief from the Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District for a conversation that goes far beyond the fireground.This is a look inside the reality of leadership in the fire service—the responsibility of command, the pressure of making decisions when lives are on the line, and the moments that stay with you long after the call is over.But behind the badge is a man balancing more than just the job. We talk about fatherhood, the transition from chaos to home life, and what it takes to be present for your family after carrying the weight of the day.We also get into Jiu Jitsu and the role it plays in building discipline, humility, and control under pressure—lessons that translate directly from the mat to the fire scene.Over a glass of Responder Bourbon, we take a moment to recognize something bigger than the drink itself—a mission rooted in honoring those who serve, supporting the first responder community, and bringing people together through shared experience and respect.This episode is about more than fire, more than bourbon, and more than titles.It’s about responsibility, identity, and showing up... no matter the cost.🥃 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:* The real role of a Battalion Chief on scene* Leadership under pressure and decision-making in chaos* The unseen mental and emotional weight of the job* Fatherhood and finding balance after the shift ends* How Jiu Jitsu sharpens discipline and composure* The meaning behind Responder Bourbon and supporting those who serveIf you respect first responders, leadership, and real conversations... this one’s for you.

What happens when the whiskey boom cools—and leadership is the only thing keeping the lights on? In this episode of Bourbon & Ballistics, host Joel Potter sits down with Wylie McDade, founder of Devil’s Due Distillery. After retiring from a 25-year career in the U.S. Navy, he decided to take on the challenge of building a craft distillery from the ground up. This conversation goes beyond bourbon to explore: • Leadership in small business when markets tighten • The realities of entrepreneurship without a safety net • Lessons learned from military service and technical careers • Navigating a cooling whiskey market with discipline and patience • Building a family-driven brand rooted in Appalachian community Devil’s Due isn’t just a distillery—it’s a case study in earned success, long-term thinking, and paying the price to do things right. If you care about entrepreneurship, leadership, veterans in business, or the real story behind craft whiskey, this episode is for you. Pour a glass and join the conversation.

In this episode of Bourbon and Ballistics, host Joel Potter sits down with Ira LaBarge, a retired police Sergeant, Marine Corps combat veteran, and owner of BASE Firearms and Training. Ira completed two combat deployments to Iraq with the United States Marine Corps, serving as a squad leader, platoon sergeant, and crew-served weapons instructor. After transitioning to law enforcement, he served as a Patrol Sergeant, Field Training Officer, Range Officer, Firearms Instructor, School Resource Officer, and SWAT operator. Now, as the lead firearms instructor at BASE Firearms and Training, Ira focuses on responsible civilian firearms education built on real-world experience. He is an NRA Law Enforcement pistol and carbine instructor, has completed active shooter response training through the Alice Institute, and is also the owner and president of Bullseye USA Inc. This episode explores firearms responsibility, leadership under pressure, civilian preparedness, and the mindset required to train with purpose—without fear-mongering or hype.

On this episode of Bourbon & Ballistics, we’re taking a different kind of shot.Recorded in the morning and done remotely, this conversation trades the usual pour for clarity, focus, and insight. Brian Bailie — golf coach, whiskey writer, storyteller, and founder of GolfCask — joins the show to talk about performance, mindset, and the culture that surrounds the game.With 18 years of collegiate coaching experience and a career now working with elite players, Brian shares why most golfers chase the wrong things, how the short game and mental discipline actually lower scores, and why rituals like bourbon and cigars still matter — even when they aren’t part of the moment.We also dive into what GolfCask really is:a community-driven platform blending golf, whiskey, cigars, travel, and storytelling through magazines, podcasts, video content, Whiskey Trails, and the 19th Hole forum.This episode is about feel over force, process over power, and the shots that matter most — on the course and in life.🔗 Explore more at GolfCask.com

We kick off Season 4 of the Bourbon and Ballistics Podcast with Jason Tingle, founder of Paramount Defense, a Nevada firearms training company focused on fundamentals, safety, and responsible gun ownership.Jason talks about his path from enthusiast to instructor, why ego has no place on the range, and how disciplined training builds real confidence. As a father and grandfather, he also breaks down family-first home defense, including preparedness, safe storage, and training with children in mind.🥃 Bottle of the Episode:4547 Freedom Edition Whiskey, a bold American whiskey that reflects the values of freedom, responsibility, and heritage discussed throughout the episode.This Season 4 premiere sets the foundation for what’s ahead: purpose, discipline, and doing things the right way. 🥃🇺🇸

In this episode, we sit down with Justin Schlag, one of the three primary founders of the Douglas County Rodeo and a major contributor to the Rowdy Revival Tour, a pop-up concert series highlighting locally rooted country artists.Justin shares the inside story of building a rodeo in Nevada, the challenges of promoting community-driven events, and what it takes to preserve Western culture in today’s world. From the dirt of the arena to the heart of country music, this conversation is all about authenticity, leadership, and the passion behind the Golden West.You’ll hear:• The origin of the Douglas County Rodeo• How the Rowdy Revival Tour supports local artists• The realities of event promotion in the West• Leadership lessons from the rodeo & music world• What it means to build something for your communityPerfect for fans of rodeo, country music, Western culture, and grassroots entrepreneurship.

This week on Bourbon & Ballistics, we raise a glass to 250 years of the United States Marine Corps — a legacy built on grit, honor, and brotherhood.Host Joel Potter sits down with returning guests Destiny Strong and Jeff Herbert, two Marines whose stories of service, sacrifice, and resilience remind us what Veterans Day is truly about. From the battlefield to the bourbon glass, this conversation dives deep into healing, leadership, and carrying the fire long after the fight is over.We’re pouring Koʻolau Distillery’s Old Pali Road Bourbon — a whiskey crafted by Marine veterans Eric Dill and Ian Brooks, who traded combat boots for barrels and built a distillery rooted in purpose, craftsmanship, and Aloha.November is a time for gratitude — for our freedom, our families, and the warriors who protect both. This episode is our toast to them.🥃 Raise one with us. Celebrate the Corps. Honor the fallen. Support the living.🎧 Bourbon & Ballistics — where the pour and the people both tell a story.#MarineCorps #USMC250 #VeteransDay #BourbonAndBallistics #KoOlauDistillery #OldPaliRoad #WhiskeyPodcast #VeteranStories #SemperFi #WhiskeyCulture #MilitaryPodcast #Brotherhood

In this episode of the Bourbon and Ballistics Podcast, we sit down with R.F. Morton, author of The Failed State Series, for a conversation that cuts through the noise.Over a pour of Minden Mill’s Nevada Straight Bourbon Whiskey, R.F. shares what drives his writing — from the real-world events that inspire his stories to the discipline and perspective that keep him grounded. This episode blends bourbon, storytelling, and straight talk.If you appreciate authenticity, craftsmanship, and a conversation worth sipping on — this one’s for you.

In this episode of the Bourbon and Ballistics Podcast, we welcome back Jeff Herbert — veteran, entrepreneur, firearms instructor, and single father who’s doing whatever it takes to keep his family on track. Jeff shares his journey balancing two jobs, fatherhood, and running ODM Defense, where he provides top-notch firearms training, certifications, and real-world defensive tactics.We dive into what sets ODM apart in the firearms training space, discuss common mistakes shooters make on the range, and highlight the importance of mindset, consistency, and preparation. Jeff also opens up about life as a single dad, veteran resilience, and the grit required to push forward no matter the odds.Pour yourself a glass, sit back, and join us for an episode packed with whiskey, wisdom, and ballistics.

In this episode of the Bourbon and Ballistics Podcast, we’re hanging out with Nick Cataldo of Dovetail Distillery in Mound House, Nevada. We dive into his journey, from how he got started to the unique process behind the incredible whiskey. If you're into craft spirits or just love hearing stories about people turning their passion into something special, you're going to love this episode. So sit back, pour yourself a glass, and join us as we get to know the man behind Dovetail Distillery. And hey, if you like what you hear, make sure to hit that subscribe button for more episodes!

Join us on the Bourbon and Ballistics Podcast as we sit down with Vinny the Knife Guy — a 17-year veteran firefighter who turned his passion for sharpening into a thriving business. In this episode, Vinny shares his journey from the firehouse to the sharpening bench, the pivotal moments that sparked his love for knives, and how he built a reputation for precision, craftsmanship, and community connection.We dive into:How Vinny became a firefighter and built 17+ years of serviceThe story behind his knife sharpening passionTips for maintaining and sharpening your bladesBalancing a demanding career with running a small businessIf you love firefighting stories, knife skills, entrepreneurship, or just good conversation over whiskey, this episode’s for you.Follow Vinny the Knife Guy on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theknifeguyrenoFollow Bourbon and Ballistics:https://youtube.com/@Bourbonandballistics#BourbonAndBallistics #KnifeSharpening #Firefighter #Entrepreneurship #Bladesmith #WhiskeyTalks

This week on the Bourbon and Ballistics Podcast, we sit down with Josh Huite, HVAC veteran, business coach, and host of The Tradesman Experience Podcast. From re-entering the HVAC world with a new mindset to building Blue Collar Insiders with Greg Giroux, Josh shares the raw truth about leadership, hard-earned growth, and the value of getting back up after failure.We sip Knobel Rickhouse (a whiskey born from Mike Rowe’s tribute to hard work) and dive into the trades, team-building, and how podcasting became a platform for change.In this episode:- The lessons Josh learned from a failed HVAC business- Why tradesmen need strong leadership now more than ever- The power of real talk and real community- Men’s mental health and the courage to reflect- What makes The Tradesman Experience resonate- How whiskey and leadership have more in common than you thinkWhether you're on the jobsite, behind the wheel, or winding down with a pour—this one's for the builders, the leaders, and the ones who keep showing up.Follow Josh:The Tradesman Experience PodcastBlue Collar InsidersCollard Heating and Air – Herrin, ILConnect with us@bourbonandballistics on all social platforms

In this deeply moving episode, Marine Corps veteran Destiny Strong joins *Bourbon and Ballistics* to share her personal story of battling PTSD, depression, and suicidal ideation after leaving the service—and how she found healing through horses, meditation, and purpose.Destiny walks us through her involvement with Healing Arenas, where retired racehorses help veterans reconnect with themselves and the world around them. We also discuss her mission with Patrol Base Abbate’s SAVE (Support-A-Vet) initiative, a powerful campaign to combat veteran suicide and bring resources directly to the warrior community.This conversation is paired with a perfectly symbolic pour: Pinhook "Bourbon Resolve”, inspired by the same kind of horses helping Destiny and countless others find peace and purpose.What You’ll Hear:- A Marine’s real talk about trauma and transition- The transformative impact of equine therapy- Breathwork, meditation, and mental health practices for vets- How PBA’s SAVE program is changing lives- A toast to resilience, community, and second chancesResources:* Healing Arenas: http//:www.healingarenas.org * Patrol Base Abbate: http://www.pbabbate.org* Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, then press 1 or text 838255If this episode speaks to you or someone you love, share it. And remember: You’re not alone.🎙 Follow us @bourbonandballistics🥃 Learn more about Pinhook https://www.pinhookbourbon.com

Today’s guest is Jake Jacobson, a rising star in country music with a sound rooted in tradition and fired up with modern edge. From small-town roots to a growing national presence, Jake joins us to talk about his musical journey, songwriting process, and what it means to stay real in an industry that’s always changing. We also sip through four killer pours from Silverbelly Whiskey, Alan Jackson’s signature line. Big thanks to Robbie Goldsmith for sharing the story—and the bottles. Whiskeys Featured: “Here in the Real World” “Birthday Whiskey” (Limited) Single Barrel Small Batch What You’ll Hear: Jake’s path into country music Writing and recording stories that matter Favorite pours of the night Tour tales, legacy goals, and what keeps him grounded Follow Jake, check out his latest music, and don’t forget to rate and follow the podcast! 👉 @BourbonAndBallistics on all platforms

New episode and this one’s truly special. I had the incredible opportunity to reconnect with an old friend I hadn’t spoken with in over twenty years. Watching him build his business and brand (via social media) from the ground up has been nothing short of inspiring, and I couldn’t be prouder to call this man my friend. To top it all off, we had the privilege of filming this episode in an absolutely epic location. Huge thanks to Michelle for graciously opening the doors for us, and to Chris for sticking around and making it happen. This one means a lot. #podcast #whiskey #bourbon #barrelproof #leather #artist #nevada #oldwest #western #leatherwork

Today’s guest is Nate Newton — partner at Battle Born Welding, high school football coach, whiskey and cigar enthusiast, and cohost of The Tradesman Experience podcast. Nate embodies true leadership in the trades, and in this episode, we dive deep into his journey from pipeline welding to business ownership, coaching the next generation, and building strong communities. We also crack open a bottle of Five Nine Kentucky Straight Bourbon by Troll, sharing our first impressions and tasting notes while talking all things business, leadership, and life. In this episode: Nate’s journey from pipeline welder to welding business owner Building Battle Born Welding from the ground up The real lessons learned coaching high school football Leadership principles in the trades First impressions of Five Nine Bourbon by Troll Advice for young tradesmen and entrepreneurs Connect with Nate: Battle Born Welding: [Insert link] The Tradesman Experience Podcast: [Insert link] If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations from the world of trades, leadership, and business. #TradesmanExperience #BattleBornWelding #LeadershipInTheTrades #WeldingBusiness #PodcastInterview #BlueCollarLeadership #FiveNineBourbon #WhiskeyAndLeadership

In the first episode of season three, we sit down with Dennis McDuffee of Intero Realty and had a Bourbon and Ballistics Podcast first... Oligarch Whisky was kind enough to send a bottle for us to try and review, which was super cool. So, sit back, relax, and pour yourself a glass while Dennis and I sit down and talk about real estate, firearms, and family and get super pumped for the @teamwhiskey Whiskey Bonanza!

We’re excited to have this amazing guest back on the show! He’s an Army veteran, the Storey County Assistant Sheriff, a successful excavation company owner, and a devoted father. His journey is filled with hard-earned lessons, inspiring moments, and plenty of grit. Fun fact: this is actually his second time joining us. The first interview didn’t quite work out thanks to some A/V hiccups (oops!), but we’re making it right—and this conversation is definitely worth the wait. We dive into his time in the Army and the leadership skills that shaped him into the person he is today. He shares what it’s really like to serve as an assistant sheriff in a close-knit community, from earning trust to tackling the day-to-day challenges of the job. We also explore his entrepreneurial side, running a thriving excavation business, and how he juggles that with being an engaged and present dad. This is a raw, relatable, and inspiring conversation about balancing big responsibilities while staying true to your purpose. Whether you’re here for the military stories, leadership advice, or just to hear how he makes it all work, you’re going to love this episode. Thanks for giving us another chance to share his incredible story! Don’t forget to like the video, subscribe for more great episodes, and let us know in the comments which part resonated with you the most. #ArmyVeteran #AssistantSheriff #Entrepreneurship #SecondChances #Fatherhood #Inspiration

In this week's episode, I sat down with award-winning published author and life coach Troy Fontana as we talk friends, family, and business.

This week, we sat down with retired action sports superstar, turned (kind of) professional golfer, Mike Mason. We uncorked a bottle of Five Trail from Coors Whiskey Co. and talked moto, golf, podcasting, and more

This week, I sat down with sommelier Troy Phillips, owner of Battle Born Wine. We drank some Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, and my personal favorite, Frey Ranch.

This week, I sat down with (soon to be) Captain John Wielkie of Central Lyon Fire and talked firefighting, paramedics, barrel racing, and football over some Broke Barrel cask strength Bourbon (which didn't disappoint).

This week, we sat down with Jen Nalder, Program Director for Main Street Gardnerville. We talk small town and zombies over some Traveller.

On this episode, we talk about veterans, organizations, charity, training, and checking o in on your buddies. We crack a bottle of George Remus Kentucky Straight with Jeremy Litka, who does a lot when it comes to charitable foundations and helping out in his community. Sit back, relax, and strap in as we go around the planet in this highly condensed version of our almost three hour conversation.

In this episode, we talk to Kayla Jacobsen, escrow offer at Stewart Title, over some Keeper's Heart Irish + Bourbon. We talk about the housing market and parenting in and coaching children's sports.

This week, I sat down with Ike Marr of The Pink House in Genoa, NV. He is also partners at the Old Post Office Cafe in Carnelian Bay, CA., and part of a two man band called Ike and Martin. It's one of the most fun, but definitely, wildest episodes I've done to date. By the time we stopped rolling, we had almost 3 hours of footage and killed a bottle of Charles Goodnight Bourbon. I edited it down to try and capture the important, coherent portions of the session, but there was only so much I could do. So, sit back, relax, and pour yourself a glass... Let's talk some bourbon and ballistics.

This week, I was able to sit down with Matt Willette, Assistant Sherrif, at Storey County Sherrif's Office, owner of HITT Industries, and owner of Nevada Excavation, Inc. We talked over some Rebel Distiller's collection about challenges in law enforcement, schools, American history, family, and a slew of other things. However, through some self-inflicted mishaps, audio quality suffered, and the back half of the conversation didn't get recorded. So, a part two is in the future.

Kory Williams from First Line Ballistics talks over some Team Whiskey bourbon, where we talk targets, whiskey bonanza, go karts, and media. Sit back, relax, and pour yourself a glass... let's talk some bourbon and ballistics.

In this week's episode, I sat down with Peter Sadabseng of Battle Born Autobody, and we talked about business ownership and building a brand. We talked about hunting, fishing, and, of course, firearms and First Line Ballistics. We tried on some Blade and Bow from the Stitzel-Weller Distillery and spoiler alert... We both really enjoyed it. So, sit back, relax, and pour yourself a glass... Let's talk some bourbon and ballistics.

Had the opportunity to sit down with Jeff Herbert of ODM Defense. It was a very informative episode where we talked about personal defense, concealed carry, competitive shooting, holsters, and, of course, First Line Ballistics. We talked about it over a couple of glasses of Brothers Bond bourbon. So, sit back, pour a glass, and take notes. Class is in session.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Joel and Sherri Dunn of Nevada Silversmithing, Reclaimed NV, and Nevada Lapidary. We talked about rockhounding, woodworking, rodeo, and, of course, @firstlineballistics. We had our first taste of Redwood Empire's Pipe Dream, which was fantastic. (*My mic was a little spicy... my apologies)

We sat down with Russ Bacon at Nevada Cerakote and had our first taste of the Rowan's Creek Straight Kentucky Bourbon from Willett Distillery. We talk about guns, cerakote, Louisville, Offroading, and, of course, bourbon. Pour a glass, light up a cigar, and come along.

Shout out to Kayden Williams, Nevada, Nevada Day Parties, and guns.