Brad Sutton Jr.: Determined—A Conversation with One of Sporting Clays' Rising Stars
In this episode, we talk with one of the brightest young talents in sporting clays today, Brad Sutton Jr. As one of the nation's top junior competitors, Brad's dedication and relentless commitment to improving his game have set him apart from the competition. From competing on some of the biggest stages in the sport to representing Team USA in Portugal, his journey is an inspiration to shooters of every age.We discuss how Brad first discovered sporting clays, the countless hours of practice that have shaped him into the competitor he is today, and the goals he's set for the future. He shares what it's like competing as a junior shooter, the lessons he's learned along the way, and the people who have helped him reach new heights. Whether you're a competitive shooter or simply enjoy hearing stories of hard work, discipline, and determination, this is an episode you won't want to miss.
Connor Daniel: How shooting thousands of targets Early Shaped This Shooters' Winning Mindset
Most young shooters dream of making it to the top — Connor Daniel’s journey from a kid shooting with Zach Kienbaum to winning Georgia State is proof it’s possible. At just 18, he's competing in NSCA, on Team USA, and shooting thousands of targets — but his secret isn't just hours behind the gun; it's the mindset he’s cultivated along the way.In this episode, Connor pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to excel in sporting clays at the highest level. You’ll discover how mental resilience, routines, and quick recovery from missed shots separate mere good shooters from the best in the world. We break down his training habits, the importance of coaching, and how maintaining focus under pressure can elevate your game — no matter your age or experience.We explore Connor’s unique approach to competition, including his focus on process over outcome, the role of mental preparation, and why confidence rooted in routine beats raw talent every time. Plus, learn why he’s already thinking beyond shooting — planning his future in engineering, coaching, and helping others master the sport that’s given him purpose.Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just starting out, this story will inspire you to take strategic, mental, and technical control—because success isn’t just about how many targets you shoot, but how you shoot them.
Dylan Thompson: How a 21-Year-Old Shoots the World's Toughest Targets and Wins Big
Most shooters underestimate just how much mental toughness and strategic practice accelerate success. Dylan Thompson, a rising star in sporting clays, reveals how he skyrocketed to top levels before turning 21—thanks to relentless focus, expert coaching, and understanding the true nature of confidence.In this episode, gun in hand and mindset locked, Dylan shares the secrets behind his rapid rise, from winning major junior titles to competing among world champions. You'll discover the crucial role of tiny technical tweaks emphasized by his coach Kevin DeMichael, why spending hundreds of thousands of rounds is just part of the journey, and how confidence—both mental and physical—can make or break your performance.
Derrick Mein & Gary Fitzjarrell : The Game Only Works Well When Everyone Respects It
Warning BAD LANGUAGE! Recorded in June 2025The best part of shooting has never been the gear or the photos, it’s the shared code: be safe, be respectful, and compete like it matters. We sit down with Gary Fitzjarrell and Derrick Mein for a raw, wide-ranging talk that starts with real life health updates and quickly turns into what’s happening to sporting clays, trap shooting, and the broader clay target community as the sport changes. We get specific about range etiquette and shotgun safety: why idling carts, trashing property, and walking around with closed guns isn’t just annoying, it’s how accidents happen. Along the way we share a “science project” that actually matters, chronograph testing frozen shotgun shells to see what cold weather does to velocity and ammo performance. From there, Derek talks training, travel, and staying ready for the next Olympic cycle and LA 2028, plus what changes when you switch guns and rebuild confidence. We debate course setting, why some targets turn into coin flips, and why the most fun shoots often keep it simple.Hit play, then subscribe, share this with a shooting buddy, and leave a review with the one rule you’d enforce to make the game better.
Shotgun Sports USA Is Making Its Return!
We're excited to bring Shotgun Sports USA back. Our goal is simple: tell the stories that matter, talk about what people care about, bring you the facts and connect with the people who make the sport great. Whether it's competition, hunting, industry news, or untold stories, we're here to bring you conversations worth listening to.