We Da People Podcast

What does real community look like in the firearms space, and why does it matter now more than ever? In this episode of We Da People, we sit down with Phillip Smith of NAAGA to talk about Black gun ownership, firearms training, preparedness, safety, and advocacy from a community-first perspective. This conversation digs into why representation matters in the 2A space and why getting more Black families comfortable with firearms, emergency preparedness, and legal awareness is so important. We talk about how NAGA helps beginners get started, creates a low barrier to entry for new shooters, and builds confidence through training, competition, and support. We also get into emergency planning, the rise of neighborhood preparedness groups, why communications matter in a crisis, and how advocacy connects directly to gun rights. From new shooters to experienced carriers, this episode is about building real knowledge, real skill, and real community. In this episode, we cover: - What NAGA is and who it serves - Why Black gun ownership and training matte - How beginners can get started safely - The value of competition for new shooters - Emergency preparedness and neighborhood support - Why safe storage and gun responsibility matter - Legal advocacy and protecting gun rights - How to plug into a like-minded community Key takeaway: Training, preparedness, and community are stronger when people feel seen, supported, and equipped to grow.

Can you train for a gunfight, or is it all chaos the moment it’s real? In this episode of We Da People, we sit down with a retired Special Forces warrant officer turned DoD contractor to cut through the internet talk and get honest about what actually matters when rounds are coming back at you. We dig into the difference between Special Forces vs Special Operations, and why that distinction matters for how people think about mission sets, training, and capability. From there, the conversation goes where most podcasts won’t: fear in real combat, what training does (and does not) prepare you for, and why “the enemy always has a vote” is not just a cool line, it’s the truth. Then we shift into the part every everyday carrier, vet, and family man needs to hear: how trauma stacks up, how PTSD can hit years later, and why therapy is not weakness, especially in communities where people were taught to “just handle it.” We also talk life, parenting, road rage, and what maturity really looks like when your pride gets tested. In this episode we cover: Can you train for a gunfight, yes or no Why you fall to your lowest level of training Why the basics and reps matter most Real talk on fear, killing, and the mental aftermath PTSD, therapy, and getting help without shame Parenting, bullying, and choosing the high road *Key takeaway:* Train the basics hard, and take your mental health just as seriously as your skill set.

We Da People Crew sits down with retired Green Beret Ren Ligon to cut through the fantasy and talk real-world context: what actually matters for everyday carry, practical training, and staying alive in civilian self-defense situations. From the difference between combat missions and “gunfighter” talk, to why comfort and consistency beat hype, Rafi breaks down what people get wrong about gear, mindset, and the reality of violence. They get into the stuff most people avoid: why carrying too much can be a liability, how “operator cosplay” misses the point, and why civilians can’t map military rules of engagement 1-to-1 onto real life. Rafi also gives blunt advice for new gun owners: rent, shoot, learn your hands/body, and stop taking guidance from the loudest friend who “can’t shoot either.” In this episode we cover: Civilian vs combat rules of engagement (and what gets you jailed) EDC choices: comfort, concealment, and consistency Testing your kit: mobility, retention, and access under stress Training rehearsal: weak-hand work, rain, flinch control Why “more mags” isn’t automatically smarter Picking your first firearm: rent, compare, and get coached Community unity and responsible gun culture Ren Ligon:   / ren_ligon  

Dating is already complicated—now add concealed carry, a digital footprint full of firearms content, and the reality that safety is always part of the conversation. In this episode of We Da People Podcast, we sit down with Amber G. Johnson (firearms instructor ) to talk about what dating looks like inside the 2A community—especially from a woman’s perspective. We break down the unspoken rules: when to disclose you carry, why “let’s go to the range” isn’t automatically a date, and how compatibility isn’t about politics—it’s about maturity, stability, and respect. We also get real about the uncomfortable side of firearms culture: women showing up to train after a scary experience… and then running into predatory behavior from people who should be professionals. From instructor boundaries (“ask before touching”) to why your behavior shouldn’t change based on the student’s gender, this is a conversation every responsible gun owner needs to hear. In this episode we cover: Dating in the 2A community and “gun owner compatibility” Concealed carry dating: when to tell someone you carry Why some women keep carry private for safety reasons Red flags at the range and unprofessional instructor behavior Carry options for women (on-body vs off-body, wardrobe reality) Edge/knife training and why pressure-testing matters What “responsible ownership” looks like (even down to calibers)

What makes women actually feel welcome and respected in the gun community—and what pushes them away before training even starts? In this episode, Shelton and the crew sit down with Amber G. Johnson to break down the real, practical ways men and instructors can create a better training environment for women—without being performative or awkward. This is a conversation about tone, ego, trauma-informed instruction, and cultural competency, and why those factors matter as much as marksmanship. We cover: Why instructors should check their motivations and ask women for honest feedback Common range turn-offs: yelling, embarrassment, over-correction, and “ego trips” How to build a welcoming brand that women actually trust The importance of trauma-informed training and avoiding “gun as savior” messaging How “standard curriculum” can unintentionally reinforce profiling and stereotypes Teaching situational awareness without labeling fashion, race, or “a hoodie” as a threat Why respect (including language and pronouns) is a business and leadership issue, not a trend If you’re a firearms instructor, a training-minded shooter, or someone trying to bring more women into the range and self-defense space, this episode gives clear action items you can apply immediately.

On this episode of We Da People, Shelton and the crew break down why the AR platform keeps winning “out of the box,” where the AK still shines, and why certain “popular” setups (yes, we said Draco) get people worked up. We cover: Price + value: what you really get at entry level for ARs vs AKs Modularity: caliber swaps, uppers, lights/lasers, M-LOK vs quad rails Manual of arms: reloads, safety placement, controls, left/right hand use Ammo realities: 5.56 vs 7.62x39, availability shifts, performance expectations Accuracy talk: “minute of man” vs precision, and real-world distance claims Reliability: piston vs direct impingement, carbon, and what actually matters Training hacks: the .22 conversion kit approach for cheaper reps This is a debate episode, but it’s not “fanboy vs fanboy.” It’s about what works, why it works, and what you should consider before spending your money. Drop your take in the comments: AR or AK—and why?

The suppressor game may be about to change fast. If the $200 tax stamp goes to $0 for suppressors and SBRs, what should you do first—and what mistakes will get new buyers in trouble? In this episode, we sit down with Pew Culture to break down what the ATF/NFA changes could mean for everyday shooters, first-time buyers, and anyone trying to build smarter in 2026. We talk real-world suppressor buying strategy, wait times, and why the “cheapest” option can cost you the most later. Video Link Juan  IG:   / pewculture   PEW POLICIES TRAVEL TAG:  https://redhatarmament.com/products/p...   

Carrying concealed isn’t just “buy a gun and go.” If your holster sucks, your belt sags, or you’ve never pressure-tested your draw, you’re building false confidence instead of real capability. In this episode of We Da People Podcast, Shelton, Colin, Fred, and Dr. Sam Burrus break down what a practical concealed carry setup looks like and the mistakes that get people hurt, jammed up, or exposed in public. We cover: - Holsters that actually work: retention, trigger protection, and why custom-fit Kydex matters - Sidecar vs standard IWB: when an extra mag is worth it (and when it isn’t) - Gun belts are non-negotiable: stiffness, adjustability, and why “regular belts” deform - Appendix vs hip carry: comfort vs access, and what changes in close-quarters pressure - Off-body carry (fanny packs/bags): the risks, the benefits, and what you MUST drill - Knife as a “get to the gun” tool: why blades and alternative access points matter - One in the chamber debate: safety, training reality, and why “best” depends on YOU - Daily-life realities: printing, restroom/grocery store moments, and dressing around the gun - Legal and optics considerations: mods, jury perception, and knowing state-to-state laws - If you carry (or you’re thinking about starting), this one gives you a grounded framework to build a safer, more reliable setup.

A cold, wet night on the farm turned into a real-world test of hunting mindset, cold weather gear, and what “prepared” actually means. In this episode of We Da People, the crew breaks down a frigid coyote hunt meant to protect calves during peak winter conditions—and the lessons hit harder than the weather. From fog so thick it disrupted optics to small mistakes (like scented hand cream) that can give away your position, this one is packed with practical takeaways you can apply to hunting, camping, or emergency readiness.  What we cover : - Cold weather layering basics: what a base layer is, why moisture management matters, and how to build a system that works while moving and while sitting for hours - “No cotton” rule: why cotton becomes dangerous in cold/wet conditions and what to wear instead - Boots, wool socks, and keeping feet dry: insulated boots, sock strategy, and waterproof barriers - Scent control for hunting: how fragrance, detergent, and prep routines impact predator hunting - PCU system explained: how military-style layering levels can simplify planning for temperature and activity - Electronics in the cold: battery drain, thermal performance in fog, and night vision limitations If you’re searching for a cold weather hunting gear guide, layering system for winter, merino wool vs cotton, Gore-Tex rain gear, or PCU layering explained, this episode is for you. Tap in: Like, comment, and subscribe for more real-world field breakdowns.

If you’ve been wondering whether a plate carrier is “overkill” or the next logical step in your gear journey, this episode breaks it down in plain English—what to buy first, why it matters, and how to avoid wasting money. In this We Da People Podcast roundtable, the crew lay out real-world “kit” thinking for everyday civilians: not cosplay, not fantasy—practical setup decisions based on purpose, environment, and training. We get into the natural progression most people follow (gun → holster → belt → chest rig → plate carrier) and explain what each piece actually does for capability and comfort. You’ll hear a straight-shooting discussion on: Plate carriers vs chest rigs: what they’re for and when each makes sense Armor basics: common plate types (steel vs ceramic), tradeoffs, and what to consider Modularity and scalability: building “Legos” that adapt over time instead of rebuying everything Budget vs premium paths: why Army surplus can be a smart starting point, and what to inspect (like stitching) Training reality: how kit changes movement, prone shooting, endurance, and why “owning it” isn’t the same as running it Brands and setups referenced include Crye JPC 2.0, Spiritus Systems, Haley Strategic, Ferro Concepts Slickster, Hill People Gear, Ranger Rig Concepts, AR500, and more. Drop your current setup (or questions) in the comments—plate carrier, chest rig, or belt-only—and what you’re building toward.

In this episode of the We The People Podcast, the crew kicks things off with real, unfiltered energy—then brings in a special guest: Dr. Samuel Burrs, founder of The B.U.S. System and a martial-arts grand master.  Dr Sam's website: https://www.thebussystem.com  IG:   / thebus_system    Facebook: The Bancroft Urban Survival System  Tik tok:   / thebus_system   YouTube:    / @thebus_systemyoutube   If you’re searching for practical self-protection principles, unarmed self-defense mindset, and how martial arts translates to real life, this conversation sets the stage for exactly that—starting with the foundation: confidence, preparedness, and the discipline to keep showing up when it counts. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why self-belief matters: speaking goals into existence and refusing to downplay your own capabilities  The importance of fundamentals and communication when you’re learning (or teaching) any high-skill discipline—shooting, martial arts, or everyday readiness A quick look at what it takes to run a clean live conversation when the tech tries to fight you (echo, feedback, and all)  Whether you carry or you don’t, everyone benefits from understanding the basics of awareness, decision-making under stress, and the mindset behind effective self-defense. If you’re into street safety, training culture, and real talk about protecting yourself and your family, this one’s for you. If you enjoyed the episode, like the video, comment your biggest takeaway, and subscribe so you don’t miss the next one. Also, support the brand—visit our merch store and grab something from the latest drop.

Showing up to the range with a gun and an ego is how people get hurt – and how the 2A community gets painted as reckless. In this episode of the We Da People Podcast, we break down the real gun range etiquette and the image problem inside gun culture. From indoor ranges to social media, we talk about what responsible gun ownership actually looks like – and why your behavior on camera matters just as much as your skills behind the gun. In this episode we cover: - Why treating the range like a party is dangerous, not “cool” - Range etiquette 101: holsters, bags, muzzle discipline, and the 4 rules - Gun snobs, suppressor flexing, and the “Draco with no brace” crowd - How ego, pride, and arrogance ruin training and get people uninvited - The global perception of Black gun owners and changing the narrative - “Gun bunnies,” clout chasing, illegal switches, and incriminating yourself online How to represent 2A with professionalism and keep your culture and authenticity

You bought your first gun… now what? Iron sights or red dot, cheap range ammo or duty rounds, YouTube videos or paid training? Before you bolt a $500 optic onto a pistol you barely shoot, watch this episode. On this episode of We Da People Podcast, Shelton, Fred, Colin (Gunplay TV), and Nick break down what new gun owners should actually do first after buying a handgun or rifle. The crew keeps it real about skills, safety, and budget so you do not end up with a $4,000 gun and a $4 body. In this episode we cover: Iron sights vs red dot Why almost everyone on the panel says start with iron sights When it makes sense to “graduate” to a red dot Point shooting at 5–7 yards vs taking a 25–35 yard precision shot Training for new gun owners How to find real firearms training in your area One-on-one vs group classes for first-time shooters Why YouTube and your “tactical” homeboy do not replace real instruction Ammo and budget tips Training ammo vs self-defense ammo (FMJ vs hollow points) How much ammo to keep on hand and how to buy in bulk Why gun ownership without practice is a liability, not protection Mindset, safety, and legal reality Always treating every gun like it is loaded The danger of flexing at the range instead of actually training Brief talk about prosecutors, flashy ammo, and why choices matter

Are pistol caliber carbines actually practical… or just expensive range toys with a flex? The crew breaks down PCCs from every angle – cost, performance, competition, and real-world use. In this episode of We Da People Podcast, Shelton, Fred, Colin (Gunplay TV), and Nick get into a real conversation about pistol caliber carbines (PCCs) – from MP5s and Flux Raiders to Glock chassis builds and budget options. No fanboy talk, just honest opinions from four shooters who actually run these guns. In this episode we cover: What a pistol caliber carbine really is Why some shooters love PCCs for:  Range days and cheap 9mm training   -- Truck guns, backpack guns, and PDW roles   -- Soft-recoiling setups for new shooters and ladies Why others say PCCs are “stupid” for fighting and stick to rifle calibers PCC in competition:   -- Is it a “cheat code” vs 5.56 rifles?   -- How flat and fast these guns really shoot Popular PCC platforms mentioned:   -- MP5 / HK SP5 and clones   -- Flux Raider P320, Glock in Recover Tactical chassis   -- MPX, B&T, Daniel Defense, AR9s, High Point carbines & more Where PCCs actually fall in your buy order:   -- Pistol, rifle, shotgun, .22… then maybe PCC

If the power went out tonight in the dead of winter, could your family really make it 72 hours? In this episode of the We Da People Podcast, we build a real-world 72 hour blackout plan using exactly what most families already have at home. No bunkers, no fantasy bug out bags – just smart, practical preparedness you can start on a budget. We cover: • How to secure and store water fast (bathtubs, hot water heaters, juice jugs, water stabilizers) • Simple food strategies for 3+ days without opening the fridge every hour • Keeping one room warm and safe with candles, Sterno cans, propane and layers – without burning the house down • Why your relationship with water, flushing toilets, and gray water has to change in a grid down scenario • Cash, documents, and digital backups – what to have ready before the ATMs and Wi-Fi go dark • Using neighborhood and family roles so you are not the only one carrying the mental load We are talking real life winter power outage survival for regular working families: how to stretch what you already pay for, how to prep in small steps, and how to keep your people calm when the lights stay off. If you have been meaning to build a 72 hour kit, get ready for a step by step, common sense guide to winter blackout survival, grid down planning, and family emergency preparedness.

Move in the dark like a pro. In this episode, the crew breaks down real-world night vision use, what a complete setup actually costs, and how to build the right system without wasting money. We compare monoculars like the PVS-14 to full binocular “binos,” talk analog vs digital night vision, and when thermal beats NV for detection. You’ll hear practical tips for helmets, mounts, lasers, IR lights, ear pro, and rifle setup for passive and active aiming. What we cover Why night vision is a true force multiplier for preparedness and low-light training PVS-14 vs binocular goggles: depth perception, weight, and flexibility Analog vs digital NV: latency, clarity, and what cheaper digital can and can’t do Green vs white phosphor and manual gain basics Realistic budgets: entry points, what drives price, and why “pay to play” is real Helmet, mount, battery packs, counterweight, and ear-pro that actually works Rifle setup for NV: passive aiming through an optic vs IR laser modules When thermal imaging wins for spotting and search Training curve, safety, and how to avoid burning tubes

If a door gets kicked at 4 AM, what actually works to protect your family? In this episode of We Da People Podcast, the crew breaks down real home defense from layout to legal, from AR setups to shotguns, and the training most people skip. What you’ll learn Go-to choices for a home invasion: handgun, AR-15, or shotgun 5.56 vs 300 Blackout at home distances and over-penetration facts Why “fatal funnel” defense works and how to hold a hallway or doorway Lights, optics, and suppressors at night and how to avoid telegraphing your position Early-alert layers: alarms, dogs, cameras, door stoppers, and garage security What to say when you dial 911 and why you should stop talking after the basics How to build a family plan that prevents friendly fire and panic Budget gear that punches above its weight and ammo that patterns tight Gear discussed AR-15 carbines and pistols, 10.5 in and 7 in builds Shotguns like Benelli M4 and Beretta 1301 with flight-control loads Weapon lights, low-lumen first click, lasers, and sling setup Suppressors, blast cans, and why “loud” can be a tactic

Stuck on an interstate overnight? Power out for days? This episode breaks down practical preparedness you’ll actually use—no LARPing, just real plans that keep your family safe. We unpack the difference between a Get-Home Bag (72-hour kit) and a Bugout Bag (long-term sustainment), when to “bug in” vs “bug out,” and how to build kits that fit your budget and your reality. In this episode, we cover: Go Bag vs Bugout Bag: What each is for and how they work together Real scenarios: Atlanta “Snowmageddon,” flooded highways, grid-down nights Top-5 essentials: Water purification (not just filtering), fire starting, cutting tools, weather-ready clothing, light/comms Redundancy rules: “One is none, two is one”—why backups matter Family planning: Packing for kids, staying put safely, when to move Night vision basics: PVS-14 vs duals, why low-light mobility is a superpower Cold/rain strategy: Wool layers, footwear, ponchos vs noisy rain shells

Should you open carry or keep it concealed? In this episode of We Da People, Shelton, Fred, Colin, and Nick break down the real-world pros and cons, the history behind open carry advocacy, and why decorum, training, and context matter more than clout. What we cover: The difference between open carry for advocacy vs everyday self-defense Situational awareness and why visible guns attract attention Historical context from the Black Panthers to modern constitutional carry Social perception around firearms in public spaces with kids and families Gear talk: holsters, retention, appendix carry, belts, and carry position Legal mindset: read the law yourself, avoid brandishing, know your state rules Responsible culture building in the 2A community Key takeaways Have a clear why for your carry choice Concealed carry preserves surprise and reduces unnecessary attention Class, professionalism, and training should guide how you present yourself Be an advocate without being an agitator Featured Fred’s short film: Crossfire Love    • Crossfire Love Documentary  #shortdocument...  

What happens when self-defense turns into aggression? In this powerful episode of We Da People Podcast, Shelton and the crew get real about use of force, road-rage encounters, and the fine line between protecting yourself and escalating violence. We share raw, unfiltered stories—from near-misses to lessons learned—and break down what it really means to stay calm when things go sideways. This isn’t legal advice; it’s street-level wisdom from men who’ve lived through it. In this episode we cover: How quickly a heated moment can turn deadly The real cost of “standing your ground” vs. walking away When lethal force is justified—and when it’s not Why ego, pride, and anger destroy more lives than bullets ever will Smart ways to protect your family and your freedom Why insurance, training, and knowing the law matter more than gear The mental game: how to de-escalate before it’s too late Whether you carry or not, these conversations could save your life—or someone else’s.