The TTPOA Podcast

In this episode, we had an inspiring conversation with Ed and Rick of Obsidian Spear Group. They shared their journey of starting a new company focused on law enforcement training after retirement, discussing what that experience has been like, how they’re giving back, and the valuable lessons they've learned along the way—lessons that have made them better professionals and people. “ That's Just Texas Talkin”ED Founder - Obsidian Spear GroupEd  dedicated over 21 years in U.S. Army special operations. He served in the 75th Ranger Regiment as a Recce Team Leader, Platoon Sergeant, and Small Unit Tactics Instructor, shaping the next generation of elite warriors. In 2014, Ed was assigned to the United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC), where he operated globally as an Assaulter, Breacher, Sniper, and Senior Tactical Advisor. With multiple deployments around the world and deep combat experience, he now leads Obsidian Spear Group—bringing hard-earned lessons to those who face danger head-on "I started Obsidian Spear Group in 2024 to continue a calling that began in the Regiment—mentoring warriors. Some of my most rewarding moments in the military came from training new Rangers, helping them become more lethal, more decisive, and more resilient in chaos. I saw that same need in the law enforcement and civilian world. OSG was born to pass on not just what I learned from success, but also the hard lessons from failure—to equip today’s protectors with the mindset, skill, and heart to thrive in the fight."If you would like to train with TTPOA, here is the training link: https://ttpoa.org/advanced-trainingIf you would like to be a vendor at our Conference, here is the link: https://ttpoa.org/conferences/2026-ttpoa-conference/vendorsTTPOA Partnerships:Jorge Pastore Foundation Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training.  We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness.  In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association. https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/The American Warrior AssociationThe American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs

In this engaging episode, we talk with SOLGW co-founder Mike Mihalski and new CEO Nate Horvath about gun ownership in America, the creation of the most reliable AR platform, and the vision for SOLGW 2.0. Tune in for insights on the future of firearm innovation! A Texas gun company leading the way!If you would like to train with TTPOA, here is the training link: https://ttpoa.org/advanced-trainingIf you would like to be a vendor at our Conference, here is the link: https://ttpoa.org/conferences/2026-ttpoa-conference/vendorsTTPOA Partnerships:Jorge Pastore Foundation Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training.  We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness.  In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association. https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/The American Warrior AssociationThe American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs

In the exciting series, we had the opportunity to sit down with Brian and Chancey from Reticence Group. We explored how practical shooting training can be effectively incorporated into SWAT team training. The discussion covered strategies for aligning training goals, overcoming common challenges, and fostering team buy-in. Listeners will gain valuable insights on building strong communication between trainers and SWAT Teams to create impactful, real-world shooting programs.

 In Exciting series, we had the opportunity to sit down with Brain  and Chancey from Reticence Group. We explore how practical shooting training can be effectively implemented in partnership with law enforcement leadership. It delves into strategies for aligning training goals with administrative priorities, overcoming common challenges, and fostering collaboration to enhance officer skills and safety. Listeners will gain insights on building strong communication between trainers and law enforcement agencies to create impactful, real-world shooting programs.

In this exciting series, we had the opportunity to sit down with Brian and Chancey from Reticence Group. They shared insights on how they train active and veteran officers in practical shooting. Both Bryan and Chancey are instrumental in teaching at a major metro police department, integrating a practical and performance-based shooting approach into their firearms training program to better prepare officers. 

Discover the innovative methods used to train police recruits in practical shooting. Brian and Chancey share insights on dynamic drills, grip fundamentals, and the importance of teaching transitions. They discuss how adaptive instruction tailors to individual needs, enhancing performance. With a focus on real-world applicability, they emphasize moving while shooting to reinforce skills under stress. This discussion opens a window into evolving training practices that prioritize evidence-based performance over rigid methods.

I sat down with Tanner and Coy. They and their teams are competing in this or any competition for the first time. We discuss lessons learned, equipment, training, and key takeaways to enhance your team's performance in real-world operations.

On day two of the 2025 SWAT competition, I sat down with the competition's directors: John Agnew, Sean Harris, and Jeff Kranz. We discussed the details of the event, pulling back the curtain on how the competitions are organized, where they will be held, lessons learned, ways to improve, the reasons behind the Competition, and the future of the SWAT and Sniper Challenge.

On Day 1 of the 2025 SWAT Competition, I sat down with two veteran competitors, Dave and Shaun. In this episode, we discuss the challenges of competing at a high level in our 50s. We also share lessons we've learned and explore how competition impacts and enhances our daily work and SWAT activities. 

We had the honor of sitting down with Kim Pastore, the resilient wife of fallen Officer Jorge Pastore. Jorge, who served as a dedicated SWAT officer with the Austin Police Department, tragically lost his life while responding to a hostage rescue call on November 11, 2023. In this heartfelt and powerful podcast episode, Kim shares her story of that fateful day and the incredible journey she's embarked on since Jorge’s passing.Her strength and determination shine through as she opens up about her experiences and emotions, revealing what an extraordinary and inspiring woman she truly is. Kim also founded the Jorge Pastore Foundation, an initiative dedicated to providing free training for law enforcement officers, ensuring that Jorge's legacy continues to make a difference. This conversation will leave you moved and inspired by Kim's unwavering spirit and dedication. Don’t miss it!Law Enforcement training is essential for preparing officers to effectively and safely perform their duties. Everyone benefits from training, and by providing greater access to meaningful tactical training, we improve the lives of officers and the safety of our community. JPF was founded to honor the sacrifice of Officer Jorge Pastore and his passion for training.  We are proud to provide foundation-sponsored classes at no or low cost to law enforcement officers in various areas, including firearms training, defensive tactics & wellness.  In addition, we provide funding to officers seeking training outside of the central Texas area when approved by their department or association. https://www.jpastorefoundation.com/The American Warrior Association (AWA) is a faith-driven, research-based nonprofit dedicated to healing moral injury among service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. We provide faith-based healing, practical support, and comprehensive wellness programs to foster lasting resilience and spiritual strength.https://www.awa-usa.org/programs/explore-awa-programs |