Sentinel Strength

In this episode, I sit with Brett Sabol, Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Shenandoah University. We dive into strength and conditioning, from foundational training principles and program design to how Brett manages and programs for 23 different NCAA Division III teams. He shares insights on athlete development, balancing performance with injury prevention, and his journey into collegiate st...

I sat down with Jeremy Bower of GIVR Packaging to dive into everything from the art of packaging to navigating small business challenges during COVID. We talked about: • How GIVR carved out its market share and expanded operations • The importance of quality packaging, from paper to boxing • How Jeremy’s team kept the business alive through the pandemic • His unfiltered take on electric vehicles—e...

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Rubio, founder of Rubio Long Snapping, to dive into elite long snapping, strongman training, and the business side of the NFL. He explains why teams are moving on from veteran long snappers after rookie contracts and what it means for athletes trying to breakinto the league. We also discuss the current political climate, including former President Trump's...

In this episode, I sit down with Paul Cooper, a retired Special Forces Sergeant Major, tech leader, and modern-day adventurer. We dive into his remarkable post-military journey, including his thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail and his rugged ride along the Great Continental Divide. Paul shares his thoughts on recovery, the high cost of healthcare in America, and navigating the VA system as a veter...

I sat down with Nate Palin, owner of Any Given Day and a leading figure in the field of tactical strength and conditioning. Nate has been coaching elite military units, including Special Operations and the U.S. Space Force, since 2012. He and I first connected that same year when he began his work with the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. A veteran of the 2nd Ranger...

This week, I sat down with Kevin Brewer, a Navy veteran, intelligence specialist, and seasoned law enforcement professional. Kevin shares a powerful story of resilience, detailing how he battled through two years of debilitating injuries and symptoms to eventually compete in Spartan races and recently complete his first sprint triathlon. He opens up about the critical role that dietary changes, tr...

In this episode, I sit down with Josh Tatro, Vice President of Copperhead Security and former Green Beret, to pull back the curtain on the private security industry. Josh breaks down how the sector works from the dominance of four major firms that have cornered the market to the ruthless, cutthroat nature of competition behind the scenes. We delve into what sets elite teams apart and why former Sp...

I had the opportunity to sit down with West Virginia State Delegate Bill Ridenour, who represents Jefferson County’s District 100. We had a thoughtful discussion on several key issues affecting both the state and our local community. We addressed the topic of tax reciprocity, specifically regarding state income tax and personal property tax, and explored potential reforms that could better serve t...

I recently sat down for a podcast with Daz Fleming, a retired Green Beret and the current owner of Speediprint in Fayetteville, NC. Daz shared his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, highlighting his transition into retirement and the specific resources available to Green Beret veterans. He discussed the strategic mindset needed to start and run a successful business, offering insig...

In this episode, I sit down with Navy veteran and author Alex Aaronson, the mind behind The Soviet Endgame series and co-author of The Monroe Doctrine. We explore his journey from the military to becoming a published writer, the pressures of character development, and how he taught himself the craft of storytelling. Our conversation then shifts to global affairs, starting with NATO’s evolving role...

This week, I sit down with Mark Christiani of O2X, a former Army Ranger with 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. We dive into the Army's Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F)program and its impact on preparing the force for today’s operational demands. Mark shares how he supports over 5,000 Reserve soldiers, providing them with the tools they need in strength training, nutrition, and holistic hea...

This week, I’m joined by Dr. J’aime Goguen, a physical therapist specializing in strength athletes. We dive into the differences between traditional physical therapy and tailored therapy for competitive athletes. Dr. J’aime shares her journey of launching a company in the U.S. after moving from Canada. She highlights a surprising correlation between Zyn use and knee injuries in strength sports. We...

I sit down with dietitian and sports nutritionist Heather Wolf to tackle hot-button topics in nutrition and performance. We cover creatine for brain health, natural ways to boost testosterone, hidden inflammatory ingredients, semaglutide and weight loss drugs, the carnivore diet, intermittent fasting, and how to stay dialed in while traveling or cutting weight for sport. Straight talk, no fluff. h...

In this episode, James Mclanahan—founder of Primal Risk—joins the show to talk shop on scenario-based training, post-Army life, and what it means to stay sharp in a chaotic world. We break down how James blends high-stress training with heart rate monitors and performance psychology to push clients beyond their limits. We also get into the shifting landscape of Southern California, where more cons...

Johann and Nick discuss Johann's upcoming retirement from the US Army, reflecting on his transition from Special Forces to the recruiting command. Johann shares the highs and lows of recruiting in Southern California, offering insight into the unique challenges of the role. They also explore their shared passion for coaching, discussing what draws them to that profession. Their conversation ro...

Nick and Robin engage in lively discussions about politics, weightlifting, and life after the military. Their conversations often touch on topics like DOGE, the border, President Trump, tariffs, and Elon Musk. Despite their differing perspectives at times, their bond as former teammates and deep respect for one another remain unwavering.

Join us as we sit down with Eric Risland, owner of Ex Umbris Designs, to discuss life after the military. Eric shares his journey of launching his own company, the challenges and triumphs along the way, and how he maintains a healthy work-life balance as a business owner. https://exumbrisdesigns.com/ Use code SENTINEL10, and you will get a 10% discount on belts, chest rigs, and pouches

Dan is a retired US Army Breen Beret and accomplished powerlifter who lives in the Tacoma, WA, area. We served together in 1st SFG (A). Dan talks about finding purpose after retiring from the Amry.

In this episode of Sentinel Strength, Nick sits down with Chris Hughart, an aneurysm survivor since the age of 13. Chris opens up about the challenges he’s faced as a legally blind individual with a disability and shares how he maintains a positive outlook while pushing forward with resilience. Nick and Chris explore the mindset that helps him navigate life’s obstacles. You can find Chris’s book a...

Nick welcomes Brian Jodice, host of the Pick Up The Six podcast and proud Appalachian State University alum (Go Mountaineers!), to the show. Together, they dive into the importance of men’s health through the lens of F3—Fitness, Fellowship, and Faith—a nationwide men’s group that offers more than just workouts. F3 provides a supportive community where men can connect, share openly, and solve life’...

Nick begins by discussing the new College Football season and shares insights about his internship in strength and conditioning, expressing how fulfilling it has been. He then explains the concept of unrealized gains, particularly in the context of middle- and lower-class Americans. Later, Nick introduces Kevin Edgerton from 18A Fitness, and they both reflect on their personal fitness journeys. Ke...

Nick begins the show by discussing a letter from an old colleague to The Washington Post, addressing concerns about the sowing of division in America, particularly about the Israel conflict. He then critiques Michelle Obama's DNC speech, pointing out what he sees as hypocrisy, especially when she criticizes those who take more than their fair share. At the same time, the Obamas themselves own...

Nick opens by discussing the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics, criticizing it as a disrespectful parody of the Last Supper. He argues that while no one dares mock Islam or Judaism, Christianity is often targeted, which he sees as hypocritical and intolerant. Nick then comments on Megan Thee Stallion's performance of "WAP" at a Harris rally, questioning its appropriateness. Th...

This week on the podcast, Nick dives straight into the action as he and Andrew discuss Andrew's remarkable recovery from a severe knee injury. They explore his inspiring comeback and triumphant win at the World’s Strongest Man 105kg competition. The conversation then shifts to training strategies and tips for becoming a better athlete. Andrew also shares insights about his company, First Calle...

In this episode, Nick welcomes Robin Sielert, a retired Green Beret with a left-of-center political stance. Nick and Rob, who spent three years together on Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA) and Operational Detachment Bravo (ODB), dive into a spirited debate on hot political issues. Despite their differences, they demonstrate that it's possible to disagree and remain good friend...