Calling Your Shot Podcast

by Chris Moreno

Calling Your Shot Podcast: #015 Derrick Balderas – Forged in Faith

In this episode of Calling Your Shot Podcast, we sit down with Derrick Balderas — Texas law enforcement officer, Army combat veteran, endurance athlete, and leader of the Christian Strong Movement. Derrick shares his journey from serving as a U.S. Army Infantry NCO with combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan to a career in law enforcement, tactical training, active shooter response, and firearms instruction across Texas. But beyond the uniform, Derrick opens up about the personal challenges that have shaped his life, including loss, faith, resilience, and finding purpose through adversity. We discuss leadership, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Ironman and ultra-endurance training, mental toughness, and the lessons learned from overcoming some of life's hardest moments. Most importantly, Derrick shares how honoring the legacy of his son Christian has become the driving force behind the Christian Strong Movement and his mission to inspire others to navigate grief, hardship, healing, and personal growth through faith and perseverance. This is a powerful conversation about service, perseverance, faith, family, and the mindset required to keep moving forward when life hits the hardest. Follow Derrick Balderas and learn more about the Christian Strong Movement. Subscribe to Calling Your Shot Podcast and follow us on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more conversations with veterans, first responders, entrepreneurs, and leaders who continue to answer the call. Derricks affiliates: https://www.covenant-training-group.com/ https://www.ironwrx.co/ https://gobundance.com/theride https://birdworx.com/ https://secureamericanow.us/ Sponsors: Berserker Built- https://berserkerbuilt.com⁠ Operation Path Forward – ⁠https://www.operationpathforward.org⁠ Zimo Pouches – ⁠https://zimopouches.com⁠ Echelon – ⁠https://drinkechelon.com⁠

E15

Jun 3, 2026

3:41:18

Calling Your Shot Podcast: #014 Kawa Mawlayee pt.3 – Who’s Really Running the Show?

He’s back once again—this time taking the conversation even further. Host Chris Moreno sits down with Kawa Mawlayee, an active duty Green Beret and the only Afghan American to serve in U.S. Army Special Forces, for Part Three of their powerful conversation. With over 22 years of combined service in the Marine Corps and Army Special Forces, Kawa continues to bring unmatched experience, insight, and raw honesty to the table. Episode Highlights: In this third installment of the Calling Your Shot Podcast, the conversation goes even deeper into real-world issues impacting both America and the Middle East. Chris and Kawa continue breaking down rising global tensions, U.S. foreign policy, and the realities behind today’s conflicts—while also addressing the long-term impact on service members, veterans, and the American public. Watch Now: Stream this powerful episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Don’t forget to subscribe and share—these are the conversations that matter.

E14

Apr 24, 2026

3:02:03

Calling Your Shot Podcast: #013 Alec Candelari – A Legacy of Service

Host Chris Moreno sits down with Alec Candelari, a decorated U.S. Marine and Army veteran who chose to follow in his father’s footsteps, dedicating his life to service, discipline, and protecting others. With over a decade of combined experience across the Marine Corps, Army National Guard, and Contracting, Alec has lived a life defined by precision, integrity, and purpose.In this episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast, Alec opens up about his journey from Force Reconnaissance operations in the Indo-Pacific to leading sniper and deep reconnaissance teams, and now serving in federal operations supporting federal agencies. He shares how his father’s legacy of service shaped his path, the lessons learned from years of high level training, and how that commitment continues to drive him today.Episode Highlights:• Growing up with a father who inspired a lifetime of service• Lessons from Force Reconnaissance and advanced sniper operations• Training Kurdish forces in the fight against ISIS• Maintaining purpose and brotherhood beyond the uniformA story of family, duty, and legacy — Alec’s journey is proof that the call to serve doesn’t just come once; it’s carried through generations.Sponsors: Team Room Tactical – ⁠https://teamroomtactical.com⁠Static Line Co – ⁠https://staticlineco.com⁠ Berserker Built – ⁠https://berserkerbuilt.com⁠ Operation Path Forward – ⁠https://www.operationpathforward.org⁠ Zimo Pouches – ⁠https://zimopouches.com ⁠Echelon – ⁠https://drinkechelon.com⁠ Grind Ops Coffee Company – ⁠https://grindopscoffee.com Wolf21- https://thewolf21.com/

E13

Nov 10, 2025

1:39:34

Calling Your Shot Podcast: #012 Travis Wilson – The Mission Continues: Project R3CON & Alpha Elite Performance

Host Chris sits down with Travis Wilson, a retired GreenBeret and founder of Alpha Elite Performance and Project R3CON, for a raw and powerful conversation about life, recovery, and finding purpose after the uniform. After over 20 years in Special Forces and multiple combatdeployments, Travis faced a life-changing parachute accident that could’ve ended everything. Instead, he turned that moment into fuel for a new mission helping veterans and first responders reclaim their strength, mindset, and community. Project R3con https://projectr3con.org/ Alpha Elite Performance https://alphaeliteperformance.com/ Sponsors: Team Room Tactical – ⁠https://teamroomtactical.com⁠ Static Line Co – ⁠https://staticlineco.com⁠ Berserker Built – ⁠https://berserkerbuilt.com⁠ Operation Path Forward – ⁠https://www.operationpathforward.org⁠ Zimo Pouches – ⁠https://zimopouches.com⁠ Echelon – ⁠https://drinkechelon.com⁠ Grind Ops Coffee Company – ⁠https://grindopscoffee.com⁠

E12

Nov 7, 2025

1:30:59

Calling Your Shot Podcast: #011 Vincent “Rocco” Vargas – Grounded in Faith, Driven by Service

Host Chris sits down with Vincent “Rocco” Vargas — U.S. Army Ranger veteran, former Border Patrol agent, entrepreneur, author, actor, and motivational speaker. Best known for his role as Gilly on FX’s Mayans M.C., Rocco brings a raw and authentic voice shaped by three combat deployments with the 75th Ranger Regiment and years of service to both country and community. Episode Highlights: In this episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast, Chris and Rocco dive deep into life after the uniform, the power of faith and family, and the pursuit of purpose. From the battlefield to Hollywood, to entrepreneurship and writing, Rocco shares how he continues to “light the fuse” for personal growth, leadership, and resilience. Watch Now: Stream this powerful episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Don’t forget to subscribe and share — because these are the conversations that matter. Sponsors: Team Room Tactical – ⁠https://teamroomtactical.com StaticLineCo – https://staticlineco.com Berzerker Built – ⁠https://berserkerbuilt.com Operation Path Forward – ⁠https://www.operationpathforward.org Zimo Pouches – ⁠https://zimopouches.com Echelon – ⁠https://drinkechelon.com Grind Ops Coffee- https://grindopscoffeeco.com/ Books: Borderline: Defending the Home Front https://www.amazon.com/Borderline-Defending-Front-Vincent-Vargas/dp/1250285577 Light The Fuse https://www.amazon.com/Light-Fuse-Vincent-Vargas-ebook/dp/B08145113X?ref_=ast_author_dp&th=1&psc=1

E11

Oct 2, 2025

1:26:56

Calling Your Shot Podcast: #010 Kawa Mawlayee Pt 2 Geopolitics, Combat Experience & the Cost of War

Host Chris sits down once again with Kawa Mawlayee, an active duty Green Beret and the only Afghan American toserve in U.S. Army Special Forces, for Part Two of their powerful conversation. With over 22 years of combined service in the Marine Corps and Army Special Forces, Kawa brings unmatched experience, insight, and raw honesty to thetable. Episode Highlights: In this follow-up episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast, Kawa shifts from personal journey to global perspective. Together, Chris and Kawa dive deep into today’s most pressing topics including rising tensions in the Middle East, U.S. foreign policy, the Israel Hamas conflict, and what it all means for service members, veterans, and the Americanpublic. Watch Now: Stream this powerful episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast onYouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Don’t forget to subscribe andshare because these are the conversations that matter. Sponsors: Team Room Tactical - ⁠https://teamroomtactical.com Margarita Texas - ⁠https://margaritatexas.com Berzerker Built -https://berserkerbuilt.com Operation Path Forward https://www.operationpathforward.org Zimo Pouches -https://zimopouches.com Echelon -https://drinkechelon.com

E10

Jul 18, 2025

2:37:46

Calling Your Shot Podcast: #009 Jeremy Murray:Small Business, Big Principles

Born and raised in Pasadena, Texas, Jeremy Murray is a true Texan through and through. He’s a driven entrepreneur, staunch Second Amendment advocate, and a strong voice for personal responsibility and preparedness. Jeremy doesn’t just believe in being equipped—he believes in being trained, and he’s dedicated to helping others understand the value of self-reliance through real-world education and experience. From building a thriving landscaping business in Houston to co-founding the widely recognized margarita mixer brand Margarita Texas, Jeremy knows the hustle firsthand. But beyond his entrepreneurial success, he’s equally known for his integrity, grit, and willingness to help others—always the guy ready to lend a hand (or give you the shirt off his back). Whether he’s talking firearms, freedom, or the mindset behind staying ready, Jeremy brings straight talk and solid perspective. We’re excited to welcome him to the show to share his insights on training, entrepreneurship, and what it really means to be prepared.

Jul 18, 2025

1:08:19

Calling Your Shot Podcast: #008 Shawn “Slick” Thornton: Faith Forged in Fire

Join host Chris as he sits down with Shawn “Slick” Thornton — a seasoned professional, high-threat security operator, faith-driven entrepreneur, and community leader whose journey spans battlefields, diplomatic missions, and powerful spiritual transformation. In this powerful episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast, Shawn shares how his early path in the military led to law enforcement, elite SWAT operations, global security roles, and ultimately, a faith-fueled mission to serve others and build stronger communities. Episode Highlights: A Soldier from the Start: Shawn began his military career early through the Army’s split-option program, heading to basic training while still in high school. After completing AIT and MOS training, he transitioned into law enforcement, serving as a police officer and SWAT operator with the Pasadena Police Department. These experiences further shaped his leadership, tactical knowledge, and commitment to protecting others. Global Security and Diplomatic Protection: Shawn later served in high-threat environments around the world with the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Services and GRS. His deployments included critical work under the NSA program in Afghanistan, operating at the highest levels of security and intelligence. Entrepreneurship in the Private Sector: In 2013, Shawn launched Paraclete Consulting Group, a company focused on delivering elite training and operational solutions for those working in volatile and dangerous environments. His leadership has made Paraclete a respected name in tactical preparedness and security consulting. A Defining Spiritual Encounter in Afghanistan: During a deployment in 2013, Shawn experienced a life-altering spiritual awakening. This moment ignited a renewed relationship with Christ and became the catalyst for his next mission: to help others through faith-based leadership and service. Founding Secure America Now Training Center: Shawn's passion for preparedness, community, and biblical leadership came together in the creation of the Secure America Now Training Center. This organization blends tactical training with spiritual mentorship, offering a holistic approach to readiness—both physically and spiritually. Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen: Shawn “Slick” Thornton’s story is a testament to the power of transformation. From soldier to SWAT officer, from global protector to spiritual mentor, his journey is a raw and honest look at life on the front lines—both in the world and within the soul. Whether you’re a veteran, first responder, believer, or someone seeking purpose, Shawn’s story will challenge and inspire. Tune In: Catch this impactful episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts as Shawn “Slick” Thornton shares his story of service, redemption, and building a stronger America—one warrior at a time. Sponsors: Team Room Tactical - ⁠https://teamroomtactical.com Margarita Texas - ⁠https://margaritatexas.com Berzerker Built - https://berserkerbuilt.com Operation Path Forward - https://www.operationpathforward.org Zimo Pouches - https://zimopouches.com Echelon - https://drinkechelon.com

May 13, 2025

3:06:09

Calling Your Shot Podcast #007 Heather Hartman: Empowering Women, Protecting the Vulnerable

Join host Chris Moreno as he sits down with Heather Hartman, a retired law enforcement detective with over 19 years of experience investigating sex crimes and working on the ICAC (Internet Crimes Against Children) Task Force to combat child exploitation. In this compelling episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast, Heather shares her journey from the front lines of law enforcement to her mission of empowering women through Hartman Tactics. With a deep commitment to protecting women and children, she now teaches situational awareness, Realtor safety, campus security, and both lethal and non-lethal self-defense techniques. Episode Highlights: 🔹 Fighting for the Most Vulnerable: Heather’s career in law enforcement was dedicated to investigating sex crimes and child exploitation. Hear how her work with the ICAC Task Force helped take predators off the streets and protect countless children. 🔹 From Badge to Business: After retirement, Heather felt a calling to continue her mission. Learn what led her to create Hartman Tactics and why she believes self-defense is more than just a skill—it’s a mindset. 🔹 Empowering Women Through Training: Heather offers courses in situational awareness, Realtor safety, campus security, and firearm training, equipping individuals with practical, real-world strategies to stay safe. 🔹 Lethal & Non-Lethal Protection: Not everyone carries a firearm—Heather breaks down how she teaches women to defend themselves using pepper spray, stun guns, and hand-to-hand techniques to increase confidence and security. 🔹 Building a Safer Future: Heather’s goal is clear—to empower women and children with knowledge, confidence, and the ability to recognize danger before it happens. Hear her insights on how small, everyday habits can make a big difference in personal safety. Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Heather Hartman’s dedication to protecting the innocent and empowering others is nothing short of inspiring. Her expertise in law enforcement, self-defense training, and crime prevention makes this episode essential for anyone looking to take control of their personal safety. 🎙 Tune In: Catch this powerful episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts to hear Heather’s expert advice and real-world experiences in protecting those who need it most. Sponsors: Grind Ops Coffee Co - https://grindopscoffeeco.com Team Room Tactical - https://teamroomtactical.com G Chief Leather- https://gchiefleather.com/ Margarita Texas - https://margaritatexas.com Double Tap Concealment- https://doubletapconcealment.com/ Grind Hard Ammo- https://grindhardammo.com/

Feb 11, 2025

1:41:56

Calling Your Shot Podcast #006 Kyle Witkowski: Warrior of Faith

Join host Chris as he sits down with Kyle Witkowski, a former U.S. Marine Corps Special Operations operator with a remarkable 10-year military career. In this compelling episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast, Kyle shares his extraordinary journey from a helicopter mechanic and gunner to a MARSOC Critical Skills Operator. With five combat deployments under his belt, Kyle’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and service. Episode Highlights: From High School to the Front Lines: Kyle’s journey began right after high school when he enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2005. Hear about his early experiences at boot camp in Parris Island, SC, and his initial role as a helicopter mechanic and gunner. Combat Missions in Iraq and Afghanistan: Kyle completed two combat deployments to the Al Anbar Province of Iraq, focusing on casualty evacuation. Later, as a MARSOC operator, he deployed twice to Afghanistan for Foreign Internal Defense and Counterterrorism missions. Discover the intense realities and challenges he faced in these combat zones. Leadership and Specialized Training: After reenlisting in 2009, Kyle was selected for MARSOC and earned the MOS code 0372 – Critical Skills Operator. He served in various roles, including sniper, assault breacher, parachutist, and jump master. Learn about the rigorous training and the critical skills he acquired. Humanitarian Efforts and Anti-Human Trafficking Work: After his military service, Kyle applied his expertise to anti-human trafficking operations across Riverside and LA Counties. He later deployed to Poland and Ukraine to assist with humanitarian aid and medical training during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Supporting Veterans Through Mighty Oaks Warrior Programs: Since 2018, Kyle has served as a Team Leader with Mighty Oaks Warrior Programs, providing peer-to-peer support, spiritual resilience, and counseling to military personnel, veterans, law enforcement, and first responders. Discover his dedication to helping others navigate life’s challenges and find healing. Why This Episode Is Essential Listening: Kyle Witkowski’s story is a powerful testament to the courage and commitment of our military personnel. His journey from the battlefield to humanitarian efforts and veteran support showcases the enduring spirit of service and resilience. Tune in to hear Kyle’s inspiring tales of sacrifice, leadership, and his unwavering commitment to helping others. Tune In: Catch this impactful episode of the Calling Your Shot Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts to hear Kyle Witkowski’s incredible stories of service, sacrifice, and his dedication to supporting veterans and their families. Grind Ops Coffee Co - https://grindopscoffeeco.com Team Room Tactical - https://teamroomtactical.com G Chief Leather- https://gchiefleather.com/ Margarita Texas - https://margaritatexas.com Double Tap Concealment- https://doubletapconcealment.com/

Dec 10, 2024

3:10:32

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