What you'll learn:

* 🎯 Why confidence without training is dangerous

* 🧠 How mindset beats gear every time

* 🛠️ 3 common gun training myths — busted

* 💬 The power of why in adult learning

* 🤝 How real connection makes safer students

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In this deeply reflective episode of Defenders LIVE, host Lora Thorson welcomes Kent Hower, Chief Instructor at Green Mountain Defense, for an unfiltered conversation about transformation, humility, and the true heart of firearms instruction. Kent shares how his early overconfidence gave way to relentless training, introspection, and ultimately a philosophy grounded in personalized education and emotional intelligence.

Despite not having a military or law enforcement background, Kent has emerged as a sought-after instructor through his deep understanding of communication, mindset, and adult learning. If you’ve ever questioned your readiness, your teaching methods, or your “why” as an instructor, this is your episode.

Notable Quotes:

"People prioritize gear over growth. Stop focusing on stuff — focus on the student."

"This moment right now — the universe gave you this. Not some paycheck. Not some follower count. This."

Connect with Kent Hower:

* 🌐 Website: greenmountaindefense.com

* 📸 Instagram/Facebook: @‌greenmountaindefense

* 🎙️ Podcast: Slinging Lead – Available on all major platforms

* 📩 Email: kent@greenmountaindefense.com

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In this episode, you'll learn:

* 🚫 Why "just owning a gun" isn't enough

* 🧠 The mindset that separates protectors from posers

* 💉 Why medical training might matter more than marksmanship

* 🛑 The real deal with external safeties & revolvers

* 📽️ How real self-defense encounters actually unfold

Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this packed follow-up episode, Lora welcomes back Will Workman, a firearms instructor and the thoughtful voice behind the Workman Protection YouTube channel. Together, they dive deep into the overlooked aspects of self-defense: from cringeworthy gun range myths to the critical importance of training, mindset, and medical preparedness.

Plus, Will opens up about his journey—how faith, family, and a heart for service led him from social work to becoming one of the most respected and humble voices in the firearms training community.

This isn’t just another “gun talk.” It’s about the responsibility of carrying a weapon, the reality of self-defense, and the readiness that comes from a life lived intentionally. 🚨

Notable Quotes:

* “You need to carry the gun you shoot the best that you’ll actually carry—every day.” — Will Workman

* “It’s not about cool gear. It’s about what happens when seconds count—and no one’s coming to save you.” — Lora Thorson

🛠️ Tools & Resources Mentioned

* 🎥 YouTube Channels:

* https://www.youtube.com/@WorkmanProtection

* https://www.youtube.com/@SelfDefenseEncounters

* 📧 Contact Will Workman: workman.protection.training@gmail.com

* 🌐 Visit: https://workmanprotection.com/

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* Check Out Defenders Live: https://defenders-live.com/

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What you'll learn:

🔹 Building discipline before life demands it🔹 Facing fear and redefining your identity 🛡️🔹 How to move through grief and loss with strength 💔➡️❤️🔹 The secret to real growth: embracing failure 🚀🔹 Why self-compassion unlocks deeper success 🌟🔹 How to find joy even in life's toughest battles

💥 Don't miss this one — it's full of wisdom, grit, and heart!

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In this deeply inspiring and emotional episode, Lora Thorson welcomes back her cherished guest, Brian Hill of The Complete Combatant. Dubbed "The Great Brian Hill" for his profound impact on so many lives, Brian shares an intimate update about his journey through serious health challenges, personal growth, vulnerability, and rediscovering purpose.

Through authentic conversation, Lora and Brian reflect on resilience, transformation, vulnerability, and the meaning of truly living with purpose. Expect wisdom, honesty, and heartfelt moments that will leave you thinking differently about life, struggle, and strength.

Notable Quotes:

* "You build the reservoir of discipline before you need it." — Brian Hill

* "Failure is not the enemy. Avoiding failure is." — Lora Thorson

* "The obstacle is the way. Whatever stands in your way is your way." — Brian Hill

* "Gratitude and compassion aren’t weaknesses — they are the unlocks to deeper strength." — Lora Thorson

Resources

* The Complete Combatant –

* Inner Game of Shooting Class – July 2025, Montana 🇺🇸 https://www.shootingclasses.com/thecompletecombatant/course/?courseId=4363

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* Check Out Defenders Live: www.defenders-live.com

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