Episodes

  • ODM Defense - Jeff Herbert

    ODM Defense - Jeff Herbert
    Sep 29 2025

    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.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 49 mins
  • Dovetail Distillery - Nick Cataldo

    Dovetail Distillery - Nick Cataldo
    Aug 11 2025
    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!
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 19 mins
  • The Knife Guy - Vinny Murgolo

    The Knife Guy - Vinny Murgolo
    Aug 11 2025

    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 service


    The story behind his knife sharpening passion


    Tips for maintaining and sharpening your blades


    Balancing a demanding career with running a small business


    If 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/@theknifeguyreno


    Follow Bourbon and Ballistics:

    https://youtube.com/@Bourbonandballistics


    #BourbonAndBallistics #KnifeSharpening #Firefighter #Entrepreneurship #Bladesmith #WhiskeyTalks
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 22 mins
  • Tradesman Experience - Josh Huite

    Tradesman Experience - Josh Huite
    Jun 13 2025

    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 think


    Whether 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 Podcast

    Blue Collar Insiders

    Collard Heating and Air – Herrin, IL


    Connect with us

    @bourbonandballistics on all social platforms
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 20 mins
  • PB Abbate/Healing Arenas - Destiny Strong

    PB Abbate/Healing Arenas - Destiny Strong
    Jun 1 2025

    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 chances


    Resources:


    * Healing Arenas: http//:www.healingarenas.org


    * Patrol Base Abbate: http://www.pbabbate.org


    * Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, then press 1 or text 838255


    If 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
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 14 mins
  • Jake Jacobson

    Jake Jacobson
    May 13 2025
    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
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 53 mins
  • Red Beard Leather - AJ Newsome

    Red Beard Leather - AJ Newsome
    Apr 23 2025
    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
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 46 mins
  • Battle Born Welding - Nate Newton

    Battle Born Welding - Nate Newton
    Apr 11 2025
    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
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 13 mins