Podcast
The Harden Up Podcast
Hosted by Matt Harden · EN
"The Harden Up Podcast" brings you into the world of high-performance training and adventure through the expert lens of Matt Harden—a former USMC Infantry Squad Leader, veteran SWAT Team Leader, and founder of OpTempo Training Group. Each episode delivers compelling conversations with leading specialists across tactical operations, athletic development, overlanding expeditions, and extreme sports.
Matt's military and law enforcement background provides the perfect foundation for extracting practical wisdom from his guests, offering listeners actionable strategies they can implement immediately. Whether you're a tactical professional, outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone looking to elevate your performance and push beyond comfort zones, this podcast delivers the insights and motivation you need.
13episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Ep 64: Training Expectations & Low-Light Work
2w ago00:17:25Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailEpisode SummaryTraining isn’t a checkbox—it’s your foundation.In this episode, we break down why tactical training is critical not just for performance in the field, but for legal accountability after the fact. Using key case law, including Graham v. Connor, City of Canton v. Harris, Popow v. City of Margate, and Zuchel v. City and County of Denver, we highlight how training—or the lack of it—has directly impacted outcomes for officers and agencies.We also take a hard look at the environments officers actually work in and why infrequent, “check-the-box” training isn’t enough to prepare for real-world encounters.Low-light operations are used as a case study to expose one of the most common training gaps across agencies. We break down the fundamentals of lumens vs. candela, beam pattern, and throw—along with practical considerations for handheld, pistol-mounted, and rifle-mounted lights.If you’re serious about performance, officer safety, and reducing liability, this episode is a must-listen.Gear MentionedWe discussed weapon lights and the importance of selecting the right tool for your environment and mission.👉 Use code OPTEMPO15 for 15% off Inforce lightsInforce LightsSocial Media: @inforcelightsWebsite: https://inforcelights.com/Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriber
Transcribe →Ep 63: Florian Oberst- German Army Officer & Lowa Global Product Manager
Mar 2500:43:18Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailEpisode 63: From Alpine Warfare to Elite Footwear: Florian Oberst on Performance in the Mountains.In this episode, I sit down with Florian Oberst—a German Army Reserve Captain, former mountain infantry soldier, and Global Product Manager at LOWA. Florian’s background is rooted in high mountain military operations, where he trained and operated in extreme alpine environments, building a deep understanding of what true performance demands in the field.After his military service, Florian studied sports and medical technology with a focus on biomechanics and equipment development, eventually transitioning into the outdoor industry. Today, he leads the global product line for LOWA’s professional boot line and mountaineering category, helping design footwear built for the harshest conditions on earth.We dive into the crossover between military experience and product innovation, what actually matters when it comes to performance gear, and how real-world use shapes the equipment professionals rely on.If you’re interested in mountains, gear, or high-level performance—this episode delivers real insight from someone who’s lived it on both sides.Lowa BootsSocial Media: @lowa.professional and @lowabootsWebsite: https://www.lowaboots.com/Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriber
Transcribe →Ep 62: Lucas Bode- Professional Hunting Guide
Feb 2801:09:41Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailEpisode 62: Elk, Elevation & Ethics: Inside the World of a Backcountry Hunting Guide with Lucas BodeIn this episode, I sit down with Lucas Bode, a professional hunting guide with nearly 20 years of backcountry experience. Lucas started as a self-taught, DIY mountain hunter and built his career the old-fashioned way — through in-the-field experience and hard-earned lessons in unforgiving terrain.Now guiding for Montana Trophy Outfitters in southwest Montana, Lucas specializes in elk hunting — both archery and rifle — while also leading hunts for antelope, bear, mule deer, and whitetail. We talk about what it really takes to lead clients in remote country, the responsibility that comes with guiding, and the ethics behind a successful harvest.Montana Trophy Outfitters: Social: @mtoutfittersWeb: https://mttrophy.com/Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriberLowa BootsIG: @lowa.professional and @lowabootshttps://www.lowaboots.com/
Transcribe →Ep 61: James Fairfield of Point Blank Enterprises
Jan 3000:46:59Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m joined by James Fairfield, a retired police lieutenant with over 30 years in law enforcement and a deep operational background in SWAT, use-of-force instruction, and tactical leadership. James now serves as the Director of Training for the world’s largest body armor manufacturer, where he brings real-world experience to the development and delivery of protective solutions for those on the front lines.We dive into the realities behind soft and hard armor—from design and testing to field application—and explore what most officers and agencies don’t know about the gear that’s supposed to keep them alive. James shares hard-earned insights from his time as a Tactical Entry Team Leader, instructor, and subject matter expert in officer-involved shootings.Point Blank Enterprises: Social: @pointblankenterprisesWeb: https://www.pointblankenterprises.com/Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriberLowa BootsIG: @lowa.professional and @lowabootshttps://www.lowaboots.com/
Transcribe →Ep 60: Jason- Police Instructor & Plain Clothes Officer
Nov 701:17:13Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m joined by Jason, a 13-year law enforcement veteran serving in the greater Atlanta area. With years of experience on one of Georgia’s busiest full-time SWAT teams, Jason has worked as both an assaulter and a sniper—taking part in high-risk search warrants, barricaded subjects, and hostage rescue operations.We dive into the mindset and tactics behind precision urban sniper work, plainclothes interdictions, and the realities of undercover support missions involving narcotics, human trafficking, and ICAC. Now serving as a department instructor, Jason shares how he’s training the next generation in marksmanship, CQB, and real-world decision-making under pressure.Jason: Social: @sierraoneWeb: https://silverlake-special-projects.square.site/Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriberLowa BootsIG: @lowa.professional and @lowabootshttps://www.lowaboots.com/
Transcribe →Ep 59: Paul Holle- of Idaho Rescue Training
Sep 3000:56:03Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m joined by Paul Holle—a wilderness medicine instructor, mountain athlete, and the founder of Idaho Rescue Training. Paul’s work and passion have taken him to 18 countries, climbing some of the world’s most iconic peaks and leading wilderness medicine courses in remote, high-stakes environments.We dive into his journey from the Colorado Rockies to the mountains of Nepal, how he built a wilderness training company from the ground up, and what it takes to teach life-saving skills in some of the most unforgiving terrain on earth. Whether he’s soloing Idaho’s 12,000-foot peaks, running 30+ courses a year, or guiding treks with his two young sons, Paul brings the mindset of resilience, curiosity, and service to everything he does.Idaho Rescue Training: Social: @idahorescuetraininghttps://www.idrescuetraining.com/NOLS: https://www.nols.edu/Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriberLowa BootsIG: @lowa.professional and @lowabootshttps://www.lowaboots.com/
Transcribe →Ep 58: Chad Bianco- Riverside Co. Sheriff, Governor Candidate
Aug 2801:20:20Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, Matt sits down with Sheriff Chad Bianco, a 30-year law enforcement veteran and the current Sheriff of Riverside County—one of the largest sheriff’s departments in the nation. They explore his personal journey through the ranks, from patrol deputy to leading a department with over 3,600 personnel and a billion-dollar budget.Sheriff Bianco shares his unfiltered perspective on how policing in California has changed over the last two decades, the impact of state legislation on frontline officers, and what he sees as the root causes of rising crime, non-prosecution policies, and the mass exodus of families and businesses from the state. They also talk about leadership, accountability, and his vision for the future of public safety in California.If you’re interested in real talk about law enforcement, leadership, and the evolving role of police in a challenging political climate—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Chad Bianco: Social: @sheriffbianco @newgovenorintownhttps://biancoforgovernor.com/Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriberLowa BootsIG: @lowa.professional and @lowabootshttps://www.lowaboots.com/
Transcribe →Ep 57: Matt Harden- Guest appearance on the Like a Man podcast
Jul 3100:45:36Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of Like a Man, I had the opportunity to sit down and talk about a journey that’s shaped who I am today—starting with my time in the U.S. Marine Corps, through college, and into a career in law enforcement and SWAT operations.We covered a lot of ground, including:My path through military service and into police workWhat SWAT selection and training really looks likeLessons from leading in high-stakes tactical environmentsTools, mindset shifts, and habits that help you perform under pressureThe power of discipline, team trust, and lifelong learningThis conversation goes beyond tactics—we dig into mindset, leadership, and what it means to carry yourself with purpose, both on and off duty. Whether you're in the military, law enforcement, or just striving to push yourself further in life, I hope this episode gives you something useful to take with you.Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriberLowa BootsIG: @lowa.professional and @lowabootshttps://www.lowaboots.com/
Transcribe →Ep 56: Ryan- Success Strategies for the Academy and FTO
Jul 100:58:58Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailSuccess Strategies for the Academy and Beyond with Ryan MarionIn this episode of the Harden Up Podcast, Matt sits down with longtime friend and former colleague Ryan Marion — a law enforcement veteran with over 17 years of experience. From patrol and school resource officer to SWAT team leader, FTO, and academy recruit training officer, Ryan has worn many hats in the profession.Together, they break down what it really takes to succeed in the police academy and sustain a high-performing career on the job. Whether you're preparing to enter the academy or already working the streets, this episode is loaded with practical advice, mindset shifts, and lessons from the field.Key Topics Covered:How to mentally and physically prepare for the academyThe most common reasons recruits fail — and how to avoid themWhat separates average officers from exceptional onesLessons from years in SWAT and training rolesAdvice for new officers navigating their first years on the jobDon’t miss this one if you’re serious about leveling up your career in law enforcement.Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show—especially if you love stories of resilience, exploration, and living boldly.The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/ Use code "hardenup" for 10% off online courses@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriberLowa BootsIG: @lowa.professional and @lowabootshttps://www.lowaboots.com/
Transcribe →Ep 55: Jennifer Vollbrecht- USMC Crew Chief and Entrepreneur
May 2800:47:00Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jennifer Vollbrecht, a former U.S. Marine Corps helicopter crew chief and door gunner who has transformed her experience in the military into a thriving career in project leadership and consulting. As the President and CEO of J. Vollbrecht Consulting, she leads teams delivering high-impact projects for the Department of Defense and Department of Energy, with a strong presence at national laboratory facilities.Jennifer shares insights from her 15+ years managing complex capital asset projects, her approach to leadership, and how her military mindset shaped her success in the civilian world. We also talk about her passion for giving back—especially through her work with Women Veterans Giving, where she supports fellow veteran entrepreneurs.Whether you're interested in leadership, project management, or veteran advocacy, this episode is packed with value from someone who's lived it at every level.Topics Covered:Transitioning from military service to civilian leadershipProject management in high-stakes environmentsSupporting women veteran entrepreneursLessons in resilience, respect, and team executionBook- My Mom is a Veteran: https://a.co/d/13KQbC6Book- Girls Guide To Military Service: https://a.co/d/fG3wLrKVet100: https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/2025-vet100/CEO Circle: https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/entrepreneurship/bunker-labs/ceocircle/Vibe Network: https://www.vibnetwork.org/Insitute for Veterans and Military Families: https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show—especially if you love stories of resilience, exploration, and living boldly.The OpTempo Training Group website for an updated list of classes:https://optempotraining.com/@optempotraining on Instagram and FacebookFind us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kBpYUjDdve9BULTHRF2Bw/featured?view_as=subscriberLowa BootsIG: @lowa.professional and @lowabootshttps://www.lowaboots.com/
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