Episodes

  • Jim Greenwood – Custom Stock Philosophy, Eye Dominance, The Process & The Greenwood Invitational – Fennell Shooting School Podcast
    Jan 9 2025

    In this episode of Fennell Shooting School Podcast, host Will Fennell welcomes Jim Greenwood, the renowned craftsman behind Greenwood Custom Stocks. Together, they delve into the intricate philosophy of custom stock design, the critical role of eye dominance in shotgun performance, the personalized process of building a custom stock, and the excitement surrounding the Greenwood Invitational shoot at Flint Oak in Kansas.

    Custom Stock Design Philosophy
    Jim Greenwood’s journey in stock design has been one of discovery and refinement. While his signature true pistol grip wasn’t part of the original blueprint, it has become a defining feature of his work. He shares how this grip design emerged as a necessity to ensure a shooter’s hand is perfectly positioned and locked in for optimal control. For Jim, the grip is the foundation of every stock he creates, and this is where he begins when crafting pattern stocks for his clients. He emphasizes the importance of this detail in achieving consistency and comfort, which directly translates into improved performance on the field.

    The Role of Eye Dominance
    Jim also discusses the often-overlooked impact of eye dominance in shotgun shooting. Drawing from his extensive experience and collaboration with Dr. Colo, a leading expert in this area, Jim highlights how eye dominance can influence a shooter’s stance, aim, and overall effectiveness. He shares insights into how his custom stocks are tailored to accommodate and correct challenges related to eye dominance, ensuring that each shooter can perform at their best.

    The Process of Building a Custom Stock
    For those considering a custom stock, Jim outlines a detailed process designed to meet the needs of every shooter. Whether you’re a competitive shooter or a dedicated enthusiast, the journey begins with creating a basic pattern stock tailored to your specifications. For those seeking a touch of luxury, upgraded options with premium walnut wood are available.

    Jim walks listeners through the steps of the final pattern stock process, detailing how each design is meticulously refined for a perfect fit. From initial consultation to the finished product, Jim ensures that every stock is a true extension of the shooter. He also discusses the tangible benefits of this approach, from enhanced comfort to improved scores, and provides insight into pricing to help shooters understand the value of this investment.

    The Greenwood Invitational at Flint Oak
    The conversation rounds out with an overview of the Greenwood Invitational, hosted by Jim Greenwood at the stunning Flint Oak venue in Kansas. This prestigious shoot brings together enthusiasts and competitors for a celebration of skill and camaraderie. Will and Jim share what attendees can expect from this unique event, from challenging courses to the unparalleled hospitality Flint Oak is known for. For more information about The Greenwood Invitational, check out the video at this link.

    Join Will and Jim for an in-depth exploration of custom stock craftsmanship and the vibrant world of shotgun shooting. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a passionate shooter, this episode offers valuable insights into elevating your game.


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    34 mins
  • Dr. Anthony Capasso – Shooting Focus & Mindset: Respecting Targets, Nutrition & Control - Clay Mastermind with Dawn Grant: Mental Excellence & Industry Insights
    Jan 2 2025
    In this conversation, Anthony Capasso shares his journey from a competitive sports background to his current role in aging medicine and stem cell therapy. He discusses the mental and physical aspects of clay shooting, emphasizing the importance of focus, nutrition, and sleep in achieving peak performance. Capasso also highlights the significance of maintaining a positive mindset and managing stress, drawing parallels between sports and life. The discussion concludes with insights on personal growth and the value of self-discovery in both shooting and everyday life. Dawn Grant Links https://dawngrant.com/ https://mindmastered.com/ https://ameliashotgunsports.com/ Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery Takeaways -Clay shooting is a form of aromatherapy for Anthony. -Controlling focus is essential for performance. -Nutrition directly impacts shooting performance. -Sleep is a critical pillar for overall health. -Understanding personal metabolism helps in food choices. -Mental focus is crucial in competitive sports. -Stress management techniques enhance performance. -Positive thinking can transform experiences. -Preparation rituals are key for competition success. -Self-discovery is a continuous journey in sports and life.
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    57 mins
  • Rylie Sass - Gun Fit, Switching Hands, Sporting Clays Goals & Still Learning - Clay Mastermind with Dawn Grant: Mental Excellence & Industry Insights
    Dec 26 2024

    Rylie Sass shares her journey as a young clay shooter, discussing her love for the sport, the challenges she has faced, and the importance of community and support in overcoming obstacles. She highlights the mental aspects of shooting, the significance of coaching, and her aspirations for the future, while also offering advice to new shooters, particularly women, to encourage them to participate in the sport. Rylie Sass is a Scholastic Clay Target Program Coach to youth shooters in Trap, Skeet, and Sporting Clays out of Florida. He commitment to bettering herself and the youth shooters she coaches is top-notch. As a new shooter to the sporting clays industry, Rylie is on track to achieving her goals from both the mental and practical stand point of shooting.

    Dawn Grant Links

    https://dawngrant.com/

    https://mindmastered.com/

    https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

    Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery

    Takeaways

    -Andrea's journey showcases the importance of adaptability in sports.

    -The transition from horse racing to sporting clays shooting highlights personal growth.

    -Intuition plays a crucial role in both racing and shooting.

    -The significance of mental resilience in high-pressure situations.

    -The impact of physical fitness on performance in shooting sports.

    -Mindfulness is crucial in high-pressure sports environments.

    -Breathing techniques can help manage anxiety and improve focus.

    -Women in shooting sports face unique challenges related to eye dominance and hormonal shifts.

    -Learning from top performers can accelerate skill development.

    -Women are increasingly making their mark in traditionally male-dominated sports.

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    50 mins
  • Andrea Seefeldt Knight - Target Focused & Subconscious Success in Sporting Clays - Clay Mastermind with Dawn Grant: Mental Excellence & Industry Insight
    Dec 19 2024

    Andrea Seefeldt Knight shares her remarkable journey from being a professional jockey to becoming a successful clay shooter. She discusses the challenges she faced as a female jockey in a male-dominated sport, her transition to clay shooting, and the importance of intuition in both sports. Andrea reflects on her early life, competitive spirit, and the thrill of competition, emphasizing the dedication and training required to excel in her pursuits. In this conversation, Andrea Seefeldt Knight shares her journey from being a professional jockey to becoming an accomplished clay shooter. She discusses the challenges of managing local shooting clubs, the physical demands of the sport, and the importance of mental focus in competition. Andrea reflects on her experiences in both fields, highlighting the adrenaline rush of competition and the parallels between jockeying and shooting. She also addresses the impact of injuries on her career and the strategies she employed to overcome challenges and improve her performance. In this conversation, Dawn and Andrea explore the mental aspects of shooting sports, focusing on visualization techniques, learning from top shooters, and the importance of mindfulness and mental training. They discuss the unique challenges women face in the sport, including hormonal influences on performance and eye dominance issues. The conversation emphasizes the balance between mental focus and instinctive reactions, highlighting the significance of enjoyment and relaxation in high-pressure situations.

    Dawn Grant Links

    https://dawngrant.com/

    https://mindmastered.com/

    https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

    Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery

    ASK Sporting Clays, LLC: https://www.facebook.com/AndreaSeefeldtKnight/

    Email: Zigask1@gmail.com

    A.I.M Shooting School: https://clayshootinginstruction.com/

    Takeaways

    -Andrea's journey showcases the importance of adaptability in sports.

    -The transition from horse racing to sporting clays shooting highlights personal growth.

    -Intuition plays a crucial role in both racing and shooting.

    -The significance of mental resilience in high-pressure situations.

    -The impact of physical fitness on performance in shooting sports.

    -Mindfulness is crucial in high-pressure sports environments.

    -Breathing techniques can help manage anxiety and improve focus.

    -Women in shooting sports face unique challenges related to eye dominance and hormonal shifts.

    -Learning from top performers can accelerate skill development.

    -Women are increasingly making their mark in traditionally male-dominated sports.

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Drew Ricketts - NSCA FITASC Chief Referee Talks Finding A Passion, Super Sporting Position & Wildlife - Clay Mastermind with Dawn Grant: Mental Training & Industry Insight
    Dec 6 2024

    In this conversation, Drew Ricketts shares his lifelong experiences in wildlife management and shooting sports, detailing his journey from growing up in Kansas to becoming the NSCA Chief FITASC Referee. He discusses the evolving drama with the FITASC & Super Sporting, the importance of education in wildlife management, the balance between conservation and hunting, and the role of referees in clay target sports. Drew emphasizes personal growth through experiences and the significance of taking advantage of opportunities. Drew’s expertise in FITASC lends to his methods of shooting and coaching. As a referee and course manager, Drew has learned by watching the best shooters around the world for decades. Drew Ricketts manages the K-State Research and Extension Wildlife Management YouTube Channel and Podcast. He also highlights the educational initiatives he is involved in, including a viral video on trapping moles and the importance of wildlife management in the community.

    Dawn Grant Links

    https://dawngrant.com/

    https://mindmastered.com/

    https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

    Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery

    Drew Ricketts: https://www.wildlife.k-state.edu/

    KSRE Wildlife Management YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KSREWildlife

    Takeaways

    -Drew has lived in Kansas for 43 years, except for one.

    -He is the NSCA Chief FITASC Referee and a professor.

    -Drew's early experiences with his father as a trapper shaped his career.

    -He transitioned from wildlife management to academia after realizing the red tape in government jobs.

    -Drew emphasizes the importance of personal growth and learning from experiences.

    -He believes in the balance of wildlife management and conservation efforts.

    -Drew's educational initiatives aim to teach wildlife management effectively.

    -He highlights the importance of being a facilitator as a referee in shooting sports.

    -Drew's viral video on trapping moles reached over 100,000 views.

    -He encourages aspiring wildlife managers to take advantage of opportunities

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    1 hr
  • Harvey Schwartz – Sporting Clays Target Difficulty, Trends & Integrity with GSCA President – MSA Podcast
    Dec 5 2024

    Harvey Schwartz, President of the Georgia State Clay Association, shares his journey into the world of sporting clays, detailing how he transitioned from a novice shooter to a key figure in the sport's governance. He discusses the financial revival of the GSCA, the importance of youth engagement, and the competitive landscape of Georgia's sporting clays shooting community. The conversation also delves into the challenges of target difficulty and the future of sporting clays, emphasizing the need for innovation and growth in the sport. The conversation explores the growth of youth participation in shooting sports, the challenges of scheduling state shoots, and the leadership transition within the GSCA. It highlights the importance of integrity in the sport, the bidding process for hosting events, and the upcoming major shooting events in Georgia. The speakers emphasize the need for community involvement and self-policing to maintain the sport's integrity. All this on the Matson Shooting Academy Podcast brought to you by The Clay Lab Network.

    GSCA Website: https://www.ga-sportingclays.org/

    Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

    Matson Shooting Academy: https://www.matsonshootingacademy.com/

    MSA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matsonshootingacademy/

    The Clay Lab: https://claylabusa.com/

    Key Takeaways

    -Harvey was introduced to sporting clays by a friend in 2005.

    -Engaging youth in the sport is crucial for its future.

    -Georgia has a highly competitive shooting community.

    -Target difficulty is a debated topic among shooters.

    -The quality of target setters has improved significantly.

    -The GSCA aims to provide scholarships for high school seniors.

    -The SCTP program is growing rapidly in Georgia.

    -New clubs are emerging, providing more opportunities for shooters.

    -Upcoming events like the Seminole Cup and Shooters Championship are highly anticipated.

    -Self-policing within the shooting community is necessary to maintain standards.

    -The trend towards more difficult targets reflects the sport's evolution.

    -Community involvement is key to sustaining shooting sports in Georgia.

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    57 mins
  • Derrick Mein - Olypmic & Sporting Clays Shooting Process: A Winning Process - Clay Mastermind with Dawn Grant
    Nov 28 2024

    Derrick Mein shares his journey as an accomplished Olympic shooter, discussing his experiences in the sport, the mental aspects of competition, and the importance of preparation and mindset. He reflects on his family support, the evolution of shooting techniques, and how he manages the emotional rollercoaster of competition. Derrick emphasizes the significance of understanding oneself and developing a personal approach to shooting, while also acknowledging the advancements in technology that have changed the game. In this conversation, Derrick and Dawn explore the evolution of shooting sports, emphasizing the increasing difficulty of targets and the advancements in shooter skills over the years. They discuss the importance of enjoying the game rather than solely focusing on winning, highlighting how a positive mindset can enhance performance. The conversation delves into the process of winning, the significance of nutrition and hydration, and maintaining normalcy while traveling for competitions. Derrick shares insights on finding focus and entering the zone during competitions, as well as his future aspirations in the sport. The discussion concludes with the importance of embracing failures as a pathway to growth and improvement.

    Dawn Grant Links

    https://dawngrant.com/

    https://mindmastered.com/

    https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

    Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery

    Derrick Mein: https://www.teamusa.com/profiles/derrick-mein-984146

    Takeaways

    -Derrick made his second Olympic team and competed in Paris.

    -The Olympic experience is humbling and eye-opening.

    -Preparation at home helps focus on competition.

    -Mental aspects are crucial for success in shooting.

    -Finding personal routines is key to performance.

    -Managing emotions is essential for competitive shooters.

    -Mistakes are opportunities for learning and growth.

    -Understanding oneself is vital for success in shooting. Targets are more challenging now than in the past.

    -Focus on the process of winning, not just the outcome.

    -Maintaining a routine helps in competition settings.

    -Finding focus is essential for success in shooting.

    -Embracing failures can lead to personal growth.

    -Traveling with familiar comforts can enhance performance.

    -A positive mindset can significantly impact shooting results.

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Nathan Flanagan - National Target Setter and Challenges of Major Shooting Events - Clay Mastermind with Dawn Grant: Mental Excellence & Industry Insight
    Nov 21 2024

    On this episode of Clay Mastermind with Dawn Grant: Mental Excellence & Industry Insight, Dawn Grant brings you Nathan Flanagan who shares his journey into the world of clay shooting, detailing how his family influenced his passion for the sport. He discusses his transition from a developer to a professional target setter, balancing family life with his commitments to shooting events. Nathan elaborates on his philosophy of target setting, emphasizing the importance of visibility and accessibility for all shooters. He also reflects on his experiences at the Nationals, the challenges of course management, and how he handles criticism from the shooting community. In this conversation, Nathan Flanagan discusses his experiences in the shotgun sport, emphasizing the importance of mental preparation, the challenges of balancing passion with family commitments, and the evolution of clay shooting as a competitive sport. He shares insights on target setting, the significance of teamwork, and the necessity of maintaining physical and mental fitness for optimal performance. Nathan also offers practical advice for aspiring shooters, highlighting the value of safety and learning from diverse shooting partners. Nathan Flanagan has been involved in sporting clays for over 25 years. After honing his skills at instructing, course management, and target setting in his home state of Texas, Nathan moved to Colorado and founded Flanagan Shooting Sports in 2014. He is a NSCA certified level 1 instructor based in Colorado. Nathan works full time in the shooting industry; whether instructing a beginner shotgunner, or setting up for a major shoot, he is dedicated to providing an enjoyable and safe experience for his clients. Nathan’s Email: FlanaganShootingSports@gmail.com Nathan’s Phone: (940) 206-4476 Dawn Grant Links https://dawngrant.com/ https://mindmastered.com/ https://ameliashotgunsports.com/ Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery Key Takeaways -He transitioned from a developer to a professional target setter after the 2008 crash. -Nathan emphasizes the importance of visibility in target setting for all skill levels. -He believes in creating a balance between challenging and accessible targets. -Handling criticism is part of the job, and Nathan focuses on constructive feedback. -Community engagement is vital in the shooting sports world. -Nathan's approach to target setting is seen as an art form. -He values the feedback from shooters but prioritizes visibility and safety. A signature style in -shooting can be deceptive. -The mental aspect of shooting is crucial for success. -Trusting your instincts is key in target setting. -Preparation for major events requires significant time and effort. -Gun safety should always be a priority in shooting sports. #sportingclays #shotgun #12ga #overunder #semiauto #trap #skeet #shooting #sports #claytarget #training #NSCA #shotgunsports #podcast Join The Clay Lab Squad to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQ4Epr--Dor0ydrflnLnTg/join Like, Share, and Subscribe. Be sure to comment what else you would like to see in the future. Disclaimers: All logos used in this video were used by express permission of Fiocchi USA, Cole Fine Guns & Gunsmithing, Westside Sporting Grounds, Ranger, Greenwood Custom Stocks, Castellani USA, Electronic Hearing Protection, SoundGear, Fennell Shooting School, and Krieghoff International. Music: Used under license from Epidemicsound This video, podcast, article, and channel are a product of Clay Lab USA, LLC. All Copyright protections apply.

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    49 mins