With Deadly Force Podcast

International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.
  • 4.9 (79)
  • WILDERNESS

Scott Reitz, former member of LAPD SWAT, co-founder and lead firearms instructor for ITTS, Inc., and both a state and federal court qualified "use of force" expert, conducts interviews with firearms industry leaders to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of when you can and can not use a firearm in defense of your life and the lives of your loved ones. Scott has been involved in five officer involved shootings that were ruled justifiable with not a single resultant lawsuit. He has taught hundreds of officers that have subsequently been involved in gunfights and to his knowledge, not a single one has resulted in an out of policy shooting. On an average year, Scott conducted the accelerated and advanced firearms and tactics training for over 7,000 officers a year and he did this for fifteen years with a perfect safety record. He has established training programs for numerous entities which have proven to be imminently successful.

Episodes

  1. 09/08/2025

    Season 2, Episode 1: Interview with ITTS Co-Founders Scott Reitz & Brett McQueen

    We're back!  After a long hiatus, we are happy to be bringing the Podcast back and we've got some great guests lined up. First up is a conversation with the co-founders of our Firearms and Tactics school.  This episode is a great way to get familiar with who we are and what we do!  Scott and Brett shed light into how ITTS got started, what our core principles are, who and how we teach, and what we're planning for the future. Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: admin@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2025 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    51 min

  2. 11/09/2021

    Season 1, Episode 11: Guns in Movies | Rust Shooting | Interview with Hollywood Prop Masters

    Episode 11 covers a timely subject matter following the tragic shooting that occurred recently  during the filming  of Alec Baldwin's movie 'Rust'.  We have an in-depth conversation with two highly experienced Hollywood Prop Masters and Armorers about how guns are used in movies and TV shows.   Karl Weschta, VP of Independent Studio Services (ISS prop house) and Donnie Bruno, a highly experienced armorer who has worked on countless films including John Wick and Transformers, offer their industry knowledge about the vast, complex and challenging world of using guns in movies as well as their open and honest views about safety on Hollywood sets. Among the many topics discussed are industry firearms safety protocols in prop houses and on production sets, how prop guns, blanks and dummy rounds are designed, function and used in films, whats the difference between a prop master and armorer, what training/level of experience is required to become a prop master and armorer, what is currently known about the 'Rust" shooting, details about the 1993 Brandon Lee (Bruce Lee's Son) shooting that resulted in his death, as well as many more firearms-specific film industry insights.  This episode is an absolute must listen for anyone who wants to better understand how firearms are used in Hollywood. Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2021 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    1h 22m

  3. 10/11/2021

    Season 1, Episode 10: Interview with Neuroscientist, Philosopher and NY Times Best Selling Author Sam Harris

    Sam Harris has a fascinating background, hosts the acclaimed "Making Sense" podcast and has authored five New York Times best selling books.  Sam is a long time student of Scott Reitz, and has much to say about the value of gaining the ability to defend oneself.  We will also thoroughly inspect all sides of the "gun debate" amongst many other related topics. Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2021 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    1h 45m

  4. 08/20/2021

    Season 1, Episode 9: Part 2 with LAPD SIS Detective III John Helms (Ret.)

    This episode concludes our conversation with LAPD Detective John Helms.  Helms shares details about the famous Bomar hostage rescue incident as well as a thorough explanation of the unique, challenging and critical function of the highly regarded SIS unit (Special Investigation Section).  In total, Helms spent 36 years policing the streets of Los Angeles and  has numerous valuable anecdotes as only he can tell tell them. Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2021 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    53 min

  5. 07/28/2021

    Season 1, Episode 8: Interview with LAPD SIS Detective III John Helms (Ret.)

    This is a unique opportunity to learn from a legendary member of LAPD.  Detective John Helms is widely considered amongst his peers to have been among those responsible for bringing modern firearms techniques and tactics to the LAPD at a critical time for the department.  Helms spent 36 years policing the streets of Los Angeles, rising in ranks from a  patrol officer to the SWAT team and then finishing his career with the heralded SIS unit (Special Investigation Section).  Helms and Scott Reitz worked SWAT together and in this episode they share many unique insights into how firearms and techniques have developed over the years, in addition to a discussion on the importance of mindset. Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2021 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    1h 7m

  6. 05/20/2021

    Season 1, Episode 7: Interview with a Member of the First LAPD SWAT Team c.1967, Sgt. Ron McCarthy (Ret.)

    In Episode 7 we have the unique honor of interviewing LAPD SWAT Sgt. Ron McCarthy, who was one of LAPD SWAT's original members when it first formed in the 1960s, and was involved in the famous SLA shootout, amongst many other notable SWAT incidents. He is widely regarded as being instrumental in shaping LAPD SWAT's success, which has influenced all future generations of Law Enforcement.  WDF Podcast host, Scott Reitz, was a member of LAPD SWAT under Sgt. McCarthy's leadership and has always deeply revered him.   This is a special episode as we cover numerous topics including LAPD SWAT history, what makes a successful LAPD SWAT officer and what makes a successful leader.  Sgt. McCarthy is truly a living legend and we are very fortunate to be able to learn from him. Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2021 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    1h 11m

  7. 10/01/2020

    Season 1, Episode 6: LAFD, Public Safety and Bringing Military Experience to Local Units with Dave Danielson

    In Episode 6 we interview LAFD firefighter Dave Danielson who has used his 25+ years of experience in the United States NAVY (2 tours in Iraq) as a hospital corpsman, helicopter crew chief and gunner, to help support his current position within the LAFD and to serve his community.   Dave shares details about LAFD and how they've grown over the years from primarily a firefighting outfit to being a complex and highly capable "All emergency department" with an abundance of modern resources.  Dave also discusses the the development of the TEMS team (Tactical Emergency Medical Services) and how they have helped support LAPD SWAT as well as other local Police Departments in providing rapid medical support during critical incidents such as active shooter events.  And finally, Dave touches on the LAFD drone program that he has helped develop and how this innovative approach not only helps with firefighting, but that drone technology is becoming much farther reaching in broader public safety efforts. Here's a link to LAFD's website for more information on educational and other resources to help keep you and your family safe: www.lafd.org Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2020 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    1h 18m

  8. 07/15/2020

    Season 1, Episode 5: Interview with Forensic Psychologist Dr. Shiloh Catanese

    In this episode we interview forensic Psychologist, Dr. Shiloh Catanese, who also served as a Law Enforcement Officer in Los Angeles County.  Due to her experience in both fields, Shiloh is in the truly unique position of being able to offer both theoretical and practical insights.  She's been there, done it, and now she helps other officers address the multitude of challenges they face due to the high demands and stress on the job! Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2020 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    1h 35m

  9. 06/24/2020

    Season 1, Episode 4: Interview with LAPD Lt. II Kevin Burke (Force Investigation Division)

    In this episode we interview LAPD Lt. II Kevin Burke, who has been with the LAPD for 21 years.  During his tenure he has worked patrol, gangs, gang detectives and robbery as a Sergeant and Lieutenant.  For the past year, Lt. Burke has been assigned as the Bureau Gang Coordinator for Operations-South Bureau (OSB), overseeing the Gang and Narcotics Details for four LAPD Areas and approximately 150 officers and detectives.   Over the previous 10 years, Lt. Burke was assigned to Force Investigation Division (FID), where he was a supervisor of one of the investigative teams.  He has been involved in or supervised over 100 cases during his time at FID.  He and his team had the responsibility to respond to all categorical use of force incidents.  He was responsible for overseeing the investigation of crime scenes, interviewing involved officers, suspects and witnesses, analyzing and interpreting the evidence, summarizing the statements of all involved officers and percipient witnesses and producing a thorough, complete and unbiased report.  In addition, he presented his findings to the Chief of Police, the Use of Force Review Board and the Board of Police Commissioners for final adjudication. Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2020 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    1h 18m

  10. 05/29/2020

    Season 1, Episode 3: Interview with LAPD Sgt. Andy Markel - Officer in Charge of Tactics Training Unit

    In this episode we interview LAPD Sgt. Andy Markel, who spent 30+ years on LAPD and held numerous roles including being a pistol, shotgun and carbine instructor, Use of Force Expert Witness, and concluded his career as the OIC (Officer in Charge) of the LAPD Tactics Training Unit.   Topics Discussed Include: Teaching tactics to officers.Connecting with and motivating young officers.Changing trends in Use of Force methods deployed by LAPD.Getting a team of instructors on the same page.Sgt. Markel's personal definition of Use of Force.The importance of understanding your department's policy.Tips for success in a Use of Force trial.Understanding depositions... what NOT to do.What is expected of an expert witness.Details about Use of Force cases Sgt. Markel has worked.Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2020 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    1h 9m

  11. 04/24/2020

    Season 1, Episode 2: Interview with LAPD SWAT Lt. Lee McMillion

    In Episode 2 of With Deadly Force we conduct our first formal interview, and who better than the man in charge of our very own LAPD SWAT team!  Lt. Lee McMillion has 32 years on LAPD and 20 of them on "D" Team, otherwise known as SWAT.  Listen to Lt. McMillion provide insight on a variety of fascinating subjects including: SWAT's overall mission.LAPD SWAT's inception, evolution and capabilities.  Team structure and disciplines.Who can apply for SWAT and who makes the cut.How LAPD SWAT training is conducted.Cross-training with other teams both domestic and abroad.Use of Force standards for SWAT officers and civilians.Responsibilities of a LAPD SWAT Lieutenant.How COVID-19 is affecting the team and their duties. We also want to highlight a couple things that make LAPD SWAT such a special and capable team:  (In the words of Lt. Lee McMillion) "Of the 17,000+ law enforcement agencies in the United States, there are less than two dozen full-time SWAT teams in which at least 25 personnel are assigned full-time and only do SWAT work.  Most agencies have SWAT as a collateral duty and/or combined resources with neighboring agencies for a regional team.  As a result, capabilities of SWAT teams vary greatly.  LAPD SWAT has 60 full-time SWAT officers.""Although the minimum threshold to go through selection is 4 years in the field as an LAPD officer, most have between 10 and 12 years before they go through selection.  We want seasoned cops who know how to solve problems and who are skilled at communication.  The average age in the platoon is about 40, which means we have a few personnel in their 50s -- and all personnel meet all the physical and tactile standards.  With that age comes not only police experience, but life experience.  The tenure of our personnel means that they all have families, they know loss, catastrophic illness, the struggles of life.  They have compassion and they bring that to every incident.  They know the value of a peaceful resolve." Enjoy the episode! WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2020 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    51 min

  12. 04/11/2020

    Season 1, Episode 1: Meet Your Hosts | Why Deadly Force?

    Welcome to With Deadly Force Podcast!  We are extremely excited to bring to you numerous discussions from firearms industry experts about the use of deadly force and how to keep you and your family safe.  In this first episode you will meet your WDF hosts, Scott Reitz and Brett McQueen, learn about how their unique experience landed them here, why they were inspired to do a podcast and what listeners can look forward to in future episodes.  WDF Podcast inquiries: podcast@withdeadlyforce.com WDF Podcast website: www.withdeadlyforce.com ITTS Firearms training inquiries: info@internationaltactical.com ITTS Firearms training website: www.internationaltactical.com Copyright 2020 International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.

    24 min
  • 12 Episodes

4.9
out of 5
79 Ratings

About

Scott Reitz, former member of LAPD SWAT, co-founder and lead firearms instructor for ITTS, Inc., and both a state and federal court qualified "use of force" expert, conducts interviews with firearms industry leaders to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of when you can and can not use a firearm in defense of your life and the lives of your loved ones. Scott has been involved in five officer involved shootings that were ruled justifiable with not a single resultant lawsuit. He has taught hundreds of officers that have subsequently been involved in gunfights and to his knowledge, not a single one has resulted in an out of policy shooting. On an average year, Scott conducted the accelerated and advanced firearms and tactics training for over 7,000 officers a year and he did this for fifteen years with a perfect safety record. He has established training programs for numerous entities which have proven to be imminently successful.

Information

  • Creator
    International Tactical Training Seminars, Inc.
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 With Deadly Force Podcast
  • Show Website
    With Deadly Force Podcast