The TTPOA Podcast: Episode Summary - "Train-Up's" with Ben Stoeger on Training Issues

Release Date: November 27, 2024

In this engaging episode of The TTPOA Podcast, hosts Brandon and Ben Steger delve deep into the challenges and misconceptions surrounding training methodologies for SWAT teams, military personnel, and first responders. The episode, titled "Train-Up's", offers valuable insights into effective training practices, emphasizing the importance of fundamentals, adaptability, and continuous improvement.

1. Introduction and Setting the Stage (00:00 - 01:50)

The episode begins with casual banter between Brandon and Ben Steger, setting a relaxed and approachable tone. They joke about their social media interactions and the unique elements of their training gear, such as Ben's "stabby dildo ran on your head," highlighting the camaraderie and informal atmosphere of the podcast.

2. Debunking Routine Training Practices (01:50 - 05:00)

Key Discussion Points:

• Critique of Rigid Training Routines: Ben criticizes the tendency of some first responders to adhere strictly to the same set of drills and routines at the range, leading to stagnation and plateaus in skill development.

  Ben Steger [02:54]: "There's not really much routine to it. Every time I've gone to your class, it's always something different. I've never seen you do the same thing twice."

• Importance of Variability in Training: Ben emphasizes the need for varied training exercises that challenge different aspects of shooting skills, preventing stagnation and promoting continuous improvement.

  Brandon [03:23]: "I think that's part of that shooting journey that you're on. You're still on your own shooting journey."

3. Emphasizing Fundamentals Over Metrics (05:00 - 12:30)

Key Discussion Points:

• Foundational Skills: The conversation shifts to the significance of mastering fundamental shooting skills before focusing on specific drills or metrics. Ben highlights how his classes prioritize fundamental principles, which has resonated positively with attendees.

  Brandon [04:54]: "Everything that you do is all based on the fundamentals... That's what's refreshing, that's what's really good."

• Data-Driven Training: Ben points out that modern training should be informed by data and real-world outcomes, critiquing outdated methods that don't align with current needs and statistics.

  Ben Steger [12:04]: "We have more information now. We look at that and say, hey, a lot of this stuff was wrong."

• Real-World Application: The hosts discuss the disparity between academy training and real-life scenarios, emphasizing the need for training that prepares officers for unpredictable and dynamic situations.

  Brandon [13:40]: "You're gonna have the days that you can go to the range and actually train, and then the other days, the training that's available to you is dry fire."

4. The Role of "Doubles" in Training (12:30 - 20:00)

Key Discussion Points:

• Understanding Doubles: Doubles, or shooting two rounds rapidly, are dissected as a drill that, when executed with a focus on fundamentals rather than mere speed or accuracy, can significantly enhance shooting proficiency.

  Ben Steger [15:11]: "I'm looking at doing shooting aggressive pairs... it's a drill to develop yourself."

• Principles Over Numbers: Both hosts agree that the emphasis should be on the underlying principles of shooting rather than achieving specific numerical metrics, which can vary based on individual shooters and equipment.

  Ben Steger [18:39]: "It's not about the numbers; it's about the principles that are in play."

• Progressive Training: Ben advocates for a progressive approach to training with doubles, starting at shorter distances and gradually increasing as proficiency improves.

  Brandon [19:05]: "I'm trying to work doubles really, to see, okay, how can I keep it looking decent at 20 and kind of push myself."

5. Practical Training Recommendations (20:00 - 25:30)

Key Discussion Points:

• Building a Support Network: The hosts suggest that newcomers find like-minded individuals within their agencies who are passionate about shooting to foster a supportive training environment.

  Ben Steger [21:50]: "Find the shooting nerd in your agency and try to make friends."

• Engaging in Competitions: Attending practical shooting competitions is recommended to observe different techniques and challenge one's skills in a competitive setting.

  Brandon [22:39]: "Go to any sort of practical kind of competition and you can see what's going on."

• Structured Drills: They outline specific drills such as the "build drill," doubles, and multi-target engagements to enhance core shooting skills like drawing, reloading, and target transitions.

  Ben Steger [23:04]: "Draw the pistol, grip it effectively, look at the spot on the target, get the site there, and you start running rounds into the spot you're looking at."

• Overcoming Ego: A significant emphasis is placed on setting aside ego to embrace vulnerability during training, allowing for genuine skill improvement without fear of judgment.

  Brandon [24:38]: "Lose your ego and get out there and compete against other people. Push yourself."

• Encouragement and Conclusion: The episode concludes with the hosts expressing satisfaction with the discussion, highlighting the value of focusing on fundamentals and encouraging listeners to continue training diligently.

  Ben Steger [25:08]: "Honestly, I thought this was a bang up podcast. Maybe the best one we've ever done."

6. Teaser for the Next Episode (25:30)

Brandon and Ben hint at the next episode's focus on dry fire training, promising to delve into its benefits and limitations.

Brandon [25:31]: "And the next one you're going to hear is going to be dry fire."

Conclusion

This episode of The TTPOA Podcast provides a comprehensive look into effective training practices for law enforcement and first responders. By emphasizing the importance of fundamentals, adapting training methods based on real-world data, and fostering a supportive training environment, Brandon and Ben Steger offer actionable advice aimed at enhancing the preparedness and proficiency of those on the front lines. Notable insights include the critique of rigid training routines, the strategic use of doubles in skill development, and the encouragement to overcome ego barriers for continuous improvement.

Listeners who seek to deepen their understanding of tactical training and leadership will find this episode particularly valuable, as it blends practical recommendations with thoughtful analysis of current training paradigms.

Train Hard and Stay Prepared!