Behind the Holster

Concealed Coalition
  • 4.7 (3)
  • HOBBIES

Behind the Holster is the official Concealed Coalition podcast hosted by nationally recognized firearms instructor Jody Picou, with regular appearances from cohosts Yates Crawford and Matt Wheeler. Each episode delivers practical, real-world insight into responsible gun ownership, concealed carry training, firearms safety, CCW laws, and everyday protection strategies—told by the instructors who train thousands of Americans each year. Whether you’re preparing for your first concealed carry class, want to understand your state’s CCW requirements, or simply want to become a more confident and capable protector, this podcast breaks down the topics that matter most: holster safety, defensive mindset, de-escalation, generational gun misinformation, parenting and firearms, common CCW mistakes, home-defense fundamentals, and real stories from the training range. Our mission is to educate, equip, and empower citizens with the knowledge and skills needed to carry responsibly. Each episode is designed to cut through confusion, debunk myths, and provide clear, actionable guidance on how to train smarter and stay safer—whether you carry daily or are just beginning your journey.  If you're searching for concealed carry tips, firearms training advice, CCW law insights, or expert-backed gun safety information, you've found your home. Tune in, learn from the best, and get Behind the Holster. New episodes available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

Episodes

  1. APR 27

    Is the Legal Justice System Designed for the Good Guy?

    In this episode of Behind the Holster, Jody Picou and Matt Wheeler take on one of the most consequential questions in concealed carry: is the legal justice system designed for the good guy? Matt — a former law enforcement officer with years of experience training concealed carriers — gives a direct answer: no. And the reasoning behind that answer is something every person who carries a firearm should understand long before they ever need to use it. Matt opens with Blackstone’s formulation, the foundational principle of American criminal law — that it is better for ten guilty people to go free than for one innocent person to suffer wrongly. This principle works well for most criminal defendants. But in a self-defense situation, it inverts. The moment you act in self-defense, you are committing a crime — homicide, assault, or attempted homicide, depending on the circumstances. The two elements the state needs to prosecute are both satisfied the moment you defend yourself and don’t deny it. As Matt puts it, you hand them their burden of proof on a silver platter. The episode covers jury selection, which Jody and Matt argue is one of the most underappreciated risks in any self-defense trial. Matt regularly polls his concealed carry students: who thinks it’s better to shoot someone in the leg rather than center mass? At least a quarter to half raise their hand — and those are people who believe in self-defense strongly enough to take a class. The broader jury pool is a different calculation entirely, and includes people who don’t think the defendant should have had a firearm in the first place. State law adds further complexity: the difference between duty to retreat and stand your ground can determine how much you need to prove and what a jury is instructed to consider. On the civil side, Jody notes that over 40 million civil lawsuits are filed in the United States every year, and argues that virtually every self-defense incident carries civil liability regardless of the criminal outcome. Matt adds a critical distinction: a civil lawsuit is not primarily designed to win — it’s designed to force a settlement. A not-guilty verdict on criminal charges does not prevent a civil judgment from being pursued, and a number of states have specifically had to pass laws to limit civil judgments against defendants found not guilty in self-defense cases. The episode closes with a practical recommendation: legal protection in place before you ever need it. Concealed Coalition offers legal protection through a partnership with Firearms Legal Protection, covering in-state, multi-state, and family situations. Behind the Holster is educational, approachable, and judgment-free — focused on protection, not politics. Whether you’re brand new to firearms or have years of experience carrying, this podcast is here to help you better understand gun safety, personal protection, and the responsibilities that come with owning and carrying a firearm. For more information, as well as in-person and online training options and additional firearm safety resources, visit the Concealed Coalition website: https://www.concealedcoalition.com/?c=23186&s1=legaljusticesystemgoodguy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConcealedCoalition IG: https://www.instagram.com/concealedcoalition TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@concealedcoalition X: https://x.com/TheCCCoalition Trustpilot: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.concealedcoalition.com Support the show

    18 min

  2. APR 13

    Carrying with or without a Round in the Chamber: What You Need to Know

    In episode 6 of Behind the Holster, Jody Picou and Yates Crawford — both Concealed Coalition trainers — tackle a common concealed carry question: should you carry with a round in the chamber? The hosts offer differing views, making for an engaging and candid discussion. This episode is sponsored by Kangaroo Carry Holsters, makers of U.S.-made shoulder holsters. The conversation begins with historical context. Israeli carry — no round in the chamber, or Condition Three — was adopted by the Israeli Defense Forces in the 20th century as a safety measure, given the range of handgun models in use. Yates points out that many handguns then weren't drop-safe by today's standards, adding a physical safety concern. While modern firearms don't share that issue, the practice persists in civilian carry culture. Yates advocates for chambered carry, citing real-world CCTV footage showing that defenders have little time or space when threats arise. He emphasizes that, under stress, actions like racking the slide are much less reliable without serious practice. Jody takes a more cautious stance for new shooters. Many concealed carry classes don’t teach holster draws or defensive scenarios, so insisting on chambered carry before foundational training may add risk. He shares how, early in his marriage, he carried unchambered as a compromise with his wife but trained specifically to make the draw-and-rack instinctive. He doesn’t recommend this long-term but emphasizes deliberate training for those who choose unchambered carry. Both trainers agree: carry decisions are risk tradeoffs. Chambered carry around kids presents risks, while unchambered carry leaves a defender vulnerable when a threat arises. Jody also mentions a surprising Louisiana law, requiring homeowner permission for concealed carry on private property — even he often declines, acknowledging the unpredictable variables. Ultimately, the hosts agree: whether to carry chambered is less about right or wrong and more about comfort level. The key is a solid training plan. ======================================================================== Behind the Holster is educational, approachable, and judgment-free — focused on protection, not politics. Whether you're new to firearms or experienced, this podcast helps you understand gun safety, personal protection, and the responsibilities of firearm ownership. For more info, training options, and firearm safety resources, visit Concealed Coalition: https://www.concealedcoalition.com/?c=23186&s1=oneinthechamber Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConcealedCoalition IG: https://www.instagram.com/concealedcoalition TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@concealedcoalition X: https://x.com/TheCCCoalition Trustpilot: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.concealedcoalition.com Support the show

    20 min

  3. MAR 24

    Concealed Carry in New York: Permits, Legal Risks, and Why Gun Owners Need to Vote

    In this episode of Behind the Holster, Jody Picou is joined by New York-based concealed carry instructor KC Brown — along with fellow trainers Matt Wheeler and Yates Crawford — to challenge one of the most common assumptions in the firearm community: that New York is impossible to navigate as a gun owner. KC Brown has trained hundreds of students across New York State, and he brings a grounded, experience-backed perspective on what the permit process actually looks like, what the legal risks are, and what responsible concealed carry requires in a state with some of the strictest firearm laws in the country. The conversation covers the legal landscape in depth — including why self-defense liability insurance is illegal under New York State law, why a self-defense shooting can cost upward of $1.5 million in legal fees, and why KC tells every student to have a defense attorney's number saved in their phone before they ever need it. The episode also gets into something KC is particularly passionate about: voting. He shares a striking statistic — over three million registered gun owners in New York chose not to vote in the last governor's election. The panel discusses why political engagement is just as much a part of responsible gun ownership as training, storage, and situational awareness. Speaking of training, KC makes the case that knowing how to draw and fire is only a small portion of what it means to truly protect yourself and your family. A 360-degree approach includes de-escalation, conflict management, child access prevention, and knowing when not to use a firearm at all. The 18-hour New York State requirement is a starting point — not a finish line. The group also tackles the unique challenges of teaching first-time gun owners in a state where many students have never touched a firearm before arriving in the classroom, and what instructors can do to build trust, change perceptions, and set students up for long-term success. ======================================================================== Behind the Holster is educational, approachable, and judgment-free – focused on protection, not politics. Whether you're brand new to firearms or have years of experience carrying, this podcast is here to help you better understand gun safety, personal protection, and the responsibilities that come with owning and carrying a firearm. For more information, as well as in-person and online training options and additional firearm safety resources, visit the Concealed Coalition website: https://www.concealedcoalition.com/?c=23186&s1=newyorkconcealedcarry Connect with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConcealedCoalition IG: https://www.instagram.com/concealedcoalition TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@concealedcoalition X: https://x.com/TheCCCoalition Support the show

    57 min

  4. FEB 25

    What Every Gun Owner Should Understand About Reciprocity and Permits

    In this episode of Behind the Holster, Jody Picou, Matt Wheeler, and Yates Crawford break down one of the most misunderstood topics in firearm ownership: reciprocity. They explain what reciprocity means, how concealed carry permits are recognized across state lines, and why gun owners must stay informed about changing laws when traveling. The discussion also explores the differences between constitutional carry and permitless carry, and why obtaining a permit – even in states where it’s not required – can offer significant advantages. They’ll also highlight the value of non-resident permits, how training plays a critical role in responsible gun ownership, and why continued education helps firearm owners stay both legally compliant and properly prepared. Beyond permits and legal requirements, the episode examines the broader challenges gun owners face, including public perception, misleading headlines, and the importance of verifying firearm laws through official sources. The hosts emphasize that responsible concealed carry isn’t just about owning a firearm – it’s a lifestyle that requires awareness, education, and accountability. Whether you’re new to concealed carry or looking to better understand reciprocity and firearm laws, this episode provides practical insights to help you carry responsibly and confidently. ======================================================================== Behind the Holster is educational, approachable, and judgment-free – focused on protection, not politics. Whether you’re brand new to firearms or have years of experience carrying, this podcast is here to help you better understand gun safety, personal protection, and the responsibilities that come with owning and carrying a firearm. For more information, as well as in-person and online training options and additional firearm safety resources, visit the Concealed Coalition website:  https://www.concealedcoalition.com/?c=23186&s1=reciprocityandpermits  Connect with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConcealedCoalition IG: https://www.instagram.com/concealedcoalition TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@concealedcoalition X: https://x.com/TheCCCoalition Support the show

    48 min

  5. FEB 11

    Firearm Laws and Drug Use: Understanding the Legal Gray Area

    In this episode of Behind the Holster, Jody Picou, Matt Wheeler, and Yates Crawford tackle a complex and timely legal issue: a Supreme Court case examining whether habitual drug users should be allowed to possess firearms under federal law. The conversation centers on 18 USC 922(g)(3) and the core problem surrounding it – “habitual user” has never been clearly defined. Our team explores how that ambiguity affects lawful gun owners, especially those prescribed pain medications or other controlled substances, and why proving intoxication or impairment from drugs is far more complicated than it is with alcohol. Drawing on law enforcement experience, firearm training backgrounds, and personal stories, the discussion expands into broader concerns about medical privacy, enforcement challenges, and constitutional rights. Should lawful prescription use be treated the same as illicit drug use? How does impairment get measured fairly? And where should the balance lie between individual rights and public safety? This episode doesn’t aim to give simple answers – it aims to ask the right questions. If you care about responsible firearm ownership, concealed carry law, and the real-world gray areas that affect everyday Americans, this is a conversation worth hearing. Behind the Holster is educational, approachable, and judgment-free – focused on protection, not politics. Whether you’re brand new to firearms or have years of experience carrying, this podcast is here to help you better understand gun safety, personal protection, and the responsibilities that come with owning and carrying a firearm. For more information, as well as in-person and online training options and additional firearm safety resources, visit the Concealed Coalition website:  https://www.concealedcoalition.com/?c=23186&s1=firearmpossession  Connect with us on social media! Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/ConcealedCoalition IG: https://www.instagram.com/concealedcoalition/ TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@concealedcoalition X: https://x.com/TheCCCoalition  00:00  Introduction: Firearm Law & Drug Use  00:25  Overview of 18 USC 922(g)(3)  01:20  “Habitual User” Definition Issue  03:10  Prescription Use & Legal Gray Area  04:30  Drug Impairment & Enforcement Challenges  06:00  Limits of Field Testing  07:40  Privacy & Fourth Amendment Concerns  09:10  Medical Records & Gun Ownership Debate  10:50 Alcohol vs Drug Law Inconsistency  12:20  Legal Double Standards Explained  14:00  Focus on Impairment Standard  15:30  Final Position on the Law  17:00  Conclusion & Key Takeaways  Support the show

    47 min

  6. JAN 29

    School Safety and Firearms: What Training Should Teachers Have?

    Welcome back to Behind the Holster, the official Concealed Coalition podcast. This week, we’re discussing a controversial topic – should teachers be allowed to carry firearms in schools? In this episode, Jody Picou and Matt Wheeler dive into North Carolina’s House Bill 193, which allows teachers in private schools to carry concealed firearms. Using their real-world training experience and perspective as parents to young children, they break down what the bill does and the important questions it raises about school safety and preparedness. The conversation centers on one key issue: training. Jody and Matt discuss why minimal annual training requirements may fall short for teachers carrying firearms in a classroom environment, and why active shooter response, decision-making, and mindset are just as critical as firearm proficiency. They also explore broader school security considerations, including the role of technology, access control, and prevention strategies that focus on stopping threats before they enter school buildings. Alternative approaches—such as the potential use of tasers—are discussed as part of a larger conversation about layered, realistic security measures. This episode isn’t about fear or politics. It’s about responsibility. If firearm safety, student protection, and practical training standards matter to you, this is an important conversation to hear.  Behind the Holster is educational, approachable, and judgment-free – focused on protection, not politics. Whether you’re brand new to firearms or have years of experience carrying, this podcast is here to help you better understand gun safety, personal protection, and the responsibilities that come with owning and carrying a firearm. For more information, as well as in-person and online training options and additional firearm safety resources, visit the Concealed Coalition website: https://www.concealedcoalition.com/?c=23186&s1=teachersandfirearms Connect with us on social media! Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/ConcealedCoalition IG: https://www.instagram.com/concealedcoalition/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@concealedcoalition X: https://x.com/TheCCCoalition  00:00 – Introduction: School Safety & HB 193  00:25 – Overview of House Bill 193  01:20 – Public Response & Concerns  02:10 – Firearm Training Requirements for Teachers  03:30 – Adequacy of Current Training Standards  04:45 – Perspectives from Parents & Educators  06:10 – Debate: Armed Teachers in Schools  07:20 – Security Limitations in Smaller Schools  08:30 – Alternative School Safety Measures  09:45 – Technology-Based Security Solutions  11:00 – Conclusion & Key Takeaways  Support the show

    28 min

  7. JAN 14

    Introduction to Behind the Holster – A Concealed Coalition Podcast

    Welcome to the very first episode of Behind the Holster, a podcast dedicated to practical firearm training, concealed carry, and responsible gun ownership – without the politics. In this inaugural episode, host Jody Picou, a 13-year veteran in the firearm training industry, is joined by Concealed Coalition leaders Matt Wheeler and Yates Crawford to explain the purpose of the podcast and who it’s designed for. Together they draw from years of real-world safety training and experience educating tens of thousands of students to discuss who firearm ownership, gun safety, and personal protection should be approached in a practical, responsible, and approachable way. You’ll hear conversations around: Everyday concealed carry questions and where new gun owners should startThe role of situational awareness and mindset in effective self-defenseWhy fear-based narratives can hurt responsible firearm ownershipWhat truly matters when it comes to safety and preparednessBehind the Holster is educational, approachable, and judgment-free – focused on protection, not politics. Whether you’re brand new to firearms or have years of experience carrying, this podcast is here to help you better understand gun safety, personal protection, and the responsibilities that come with owning and carrying a firearm. New episodes will continue to dive deeper into training topics, legal basics, listener questions, and real-world stories from instructors nationwide. For more information, as well as in-person and online training options and additional firearm safety resources, visit the Concealed Coalition website: https://www.concealedcoalition.com/?c=23186&s1=behindtheholsterintro  Connect with us on social media! Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/ConcealedCoalition IG: https://www.instagram.com/concealedcoalition/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@concealedcoalition X: https://x.com/TheCCCoalition 00:00 Introduction to Concealed Coalition Podcast 00:58 Meet the Hosts: Matt Wheeler and Yates Crawford 02:13 Purpose of the Podcast: Training and Education 03:47 Addressing Common Questions in Firearm Training 05:14 The Importance of Safe Firearm Practices 07:05 Demystifying Firearm Ownership 08:34 Changing the Face of Firearm Training 12:33 The Journey of Concealed Coalition 14:56 What This Podcast Will Not Be 16:24 Misinformation in the Gun Industry 19:02 Expectations for the Podcast 23:22 Conclusion and Future Episodes Support the show

    28 min
  • 7 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Behind the Holster is the official Concealed Coalition podcast hosted by nationally recognized firearms instructor Jody Picou, with regular appearances from cohosts Yates Crawford and Matt Wheeler. Each episode delivers practical, real-world insight into responsible gun ownership, concealed carry training, firearms safety, CCW laws, and everyday protection strategies—told by the instructors who train thousands of Americans each year. Whether you’re preparing for your first concealed carry class, want to understand your state’s CCW requirements, or simply want to become a more confident and capable protector, this podcast breaks down the topics that matter most: holster safety, defensive mindset, de-escalation, generational gun misinformation, parenting and firearms, common CCW mistakes, home-defense fundamentals, and real stories from the training range. Our mission is to educate, equip, and empower citizens with the knowledge and skills needed to carry responsibly. Each episode is designed to cut through confusion, debunk myths, and provide clear, actionable guidance on how to train smarter and stay safer—whether you carry daily or are just beginning your journey.  If you're searching for concealed carry tips, firearms training advice, CCW law insights, or expert-backed gun safety information, you've found your home. Tune in, learn from the best, and get Behind the Holster. New episodes available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

Information

  • Creator
    Concealed Coalition
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Behind the Holster
  • Show Website
    Behind the Holster