Forge of Freedom

02/17/2025

Episode 169. The Difference Between the Private and Public Sector

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the fundamental principles of government, private property, and the free market. He emphasizes the detrimental effects of government on human prosperity and freedom, advocating for a reduction in government size and influence. Ooley contrasts the private and public sectors, highlighting the inefficiencies and coercive nature of government operations compared to the voluntary exchanges in the market. He also explores the implications of democracy on economic systems and the inherent flaws in socialist models. The episode concludes with reflections on the nature of the state and the importance of individual conscience in governance.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Government and Property Rights
02:55 The Role of Government in Economic Prosperity
06:00 Private vs Public Sector: Understanding the Differences
11:52 The Impact of Democracy on Economic Systems
18:13 The Nature of the State and Economic Means
24:08 Conclusion and Reflections on Freedom

Resources

The Difference Between the Private and Public Sector
https://fee.org/articles/the-difference-between-the-private-and-public-sector/

https://x.com/feeonline/status/1891508685559504989

I, Pencil
https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-15-i-pencil/

Capitalism versus Socialism
https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-99-capitalism-versus-socialism-the-great-seligman-nearing-debate-of-1921-with-rob-weir/

Ludwig von Mises (Socialism)
https://mises.org/library/book/socialism-economic-and-sociological-analysis

https://cdn.mises.org/Socialism%20An%20Economic%20and%20Sociological%20Analysis_3.pdf

Keywords
government, private property, free market, economic prosperity, public sector, democracy, capitalism, voluntary exchange, socialism, economic calculation problem

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

02/08/2025

Podcast Episode · Firearm Trainer's Podcast For American Firearm Instructors · 02/04/2025 · 1 sec

02/07/2025

I recently spoke with the Washington Post for 15 minutes about a thought-provoking topic on gun laws and vision impairment.

In my opinion, the most relevant portions of my commentary were left out, but I was happy to contribute to the conversation.

I also appreciate the contribution from Guy Relford to this discussion, despite his lack of direct attribution in the article. Check out the full piece and let us know what you think.

"To protest Indiana’s gun laws, a blind man got a handgun license"

Terry Sutherland stirred debate about blind people’s right to carry fi****ms after he obtained a handgun license to make a statement about Indiana’s gun laws.

02/03/2025

Episode 168. Amanda Suffecool and Theresa Inacker: The Fight for Gun Rights and Voices for Change at the NRA

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the current state of the NRA with guests Amanda Suffecool and Theresa Inacker. They delve into the ongoing reform efforts within the NRA, the challenges faced by gun rights advocates, and the importance of grassroots activism. Amanda shares her journey to becoming a board member, while Theresa discusses her advocacy work in New Jersey. The conversation highlights the need for transparency, effective marketing, and collaboration with state organizations to restore the NRA's mission and member confidence.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Guests and NRA Context
02:52 Amanda Suffecool's Journey to the NRA Board
05:45 Theresa Inacker's Advocacy in New Jersey
12:04 Grassroots Efforts and Legal Battles
15:06 NRA Board Elections and Reform Strategies
20:54 Challenges Faced by the NRA and the Old Guard
27:10 The Importance of Transparency in the NRA
29:21 The Call for Transparency and Change
30:30 Debating the Size of the NRA Board
39:42 Legal Challenges and Organizational Mission
46:38 Restoring Trust and Membership
52:45 Marketing and Communication Strategies

​​Resources

Elect a New NRA
https://electanewnra.com/

Theresa Inacker
https://x.com/theresainacker
https://electanewnra.com/inacker/
https://www.news2a.com/author/tinacker/
https://linktr.ee/theresainacker
https://www.scotusblog.com/2022/07/from-constitutional-orphan-to-treasured-heirloom-the-second-amendment-is-no-longer-a-second-class-right/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMDWwNuacYY
https://www.instagram.com/theresa.inacker

Amanda Suffecool
http://eyeonthetargetradio.com/
https://www.facebook.com/amanda.suffecool/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-ZM8ageqjM&t=1642s
https://gunculture2point0.com/2024/05/20/nra-at-the-crossroads/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIvuM_JHFNM&t=1s
https://www.firearmtrainerpodcast.com/2021/05/10/ep-113-the-dc-project-and-why-its-important/

Other resources
https://nraindanger.wordpress.com/2025/01/07/if-you-wonder-how-much-damage-the-cabal-did-to-nra/
https://www.womenforgunrights.org/about/
https://onlygunsandmoney.com/?p=186

Amanda Suffecool
Theresa Inacker
CNJFO
Self Defense Radio Network
2A New Jersey
Women for Gun Rights

Keywords
NRA, gun rights, reform, Amanda Suffecool, Teresa Inacker, board of directors, transparency, grassroots advocacy, elections, legal battles

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

01/27/2025

Episode 167. The Firearm Trainer's Podcast with Rob Beckman

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley speaks with Rob Beckman, a dedicated fi****ms instructor and host of the Firearm Trainer's Podcast. They discuss Rob's journey into fi****ms training, the importance of mental health awareness in the fi****ms community, and the need for diversity in perspectives within fi****ms training. Rob emphasizes the role of instructors in educating gun owners about their rights and responsibilities, and the podcast's mission to provide valuable insights for both instructors and everyday gun owners. They also touch on the future of fi****ms training and the potential for reform within organizations like the NRA.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rob Beckman and His Journey
08:59 The Importance of Mental Health in Fi****ms Training
20:50 Becoming a Fi****ms Training Counselor
32:07 Diversity in Fi****ms Training and Learning Styles
33:48 Navigating Political Sensitivity in Fi****ms Training
39:48 Diversity in the Fi****ms Community
46:26 The Evolution of Fi****ms Education
50:22 Influences and Mentorship in Fi****ms Training
57:29 Resources for Continuous Learning in Fi****ms
01:00:57 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions

Resources

The Firearm Trainer Podcast
https://www.firearmtrainerpodcast.com/

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/firearm-trainers-podcast-for-american-firearm-instructors/id1459688896

S6E19 Crime Prevention Research Center (CPRC) ()| The Firearm Trainer Podcast
https://www.firearmtrainerpodcast.com/2024/01/08/s6e19-crime-prevention-research-center-cprc/

American Defense Training | We prepare you with the knowledge, skills, and attitude to survive in a modern world ()
https://americandefensetraining.us/

https://www.facebook.com/AmericanDefenseTraining/

S5E18 Su***de and Volunteering | The Firearm Trainer Podcast ()
https://www.firearmtrainerpodcast.com/2023/07/04/s5e18-suicide-and-volunteering/

Rob Beckman On the Physiology of Deadly Encounters - USCCA Expo 2018 - YouTube ()
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xZf6zy1re4

RSWC 109 Rob Beckman - YouTube ()
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLN5T8bAgd0&t=2619s

The Bullet (Weekend Edition) 6/18/2022 - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyM2fv1y9RI

Meet The Pressers: Episode X with Rob Beckman of The Fi****ms Trainer's Podcast & ADT - YouTube ()
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxc7wSy5viM

The Bullet (weekend edition) 5/6/2023 - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApN6YDXIIYo

Polite Society Podcast - 03/01/2021 - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ArHDkN7ail0&t=811s

Keywords
fi****ms training, mental health, diversity, self-defense, concealed carry, fi****ms instructors, Second Amendment, podcasting, gun rights, education

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

01/20/2025

🎙️ New Episode Alert!

Dive into the heart of the NRA's reform movement with John Richardson on the latest 'Forge of Freedom' podcast. We discuss the battle between reformers and the old guard, transparency issues, and the roadmap for NRA 2.0.

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform, or watch on YouTube/Rumble!

01/20/2025

Show Notes

Episode 166. NRA at a Crossroads with John Richardson

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley speaks with John Richardson about the current state of the NRA, the upcoming board elections, and the ongoing divide between reformers and the old guard. They discuss the impact of the New York Attorney General's lawsuit, the importance of member engagement, and the need for transparency and accountability within the organization. Richardson shares insights on the reform candidates and their vision for the future of the NRA, emphasizing the necessity of collaboration with other gun rights organizations to strengthen the movement.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background on NRA Elections
02:44 The Divide: Reformers vs. Old Guard
05:59 The Impact of the New York Attorney General's Lawsuit
08:35 The Four for Reform Movement
11:41 Recent Changes in NRA Leadership
14:27 Dissolution of the Special Litigation Committee
17:17 Financial Accountability and Legal Issues
20:07 The Future of NRA Reform
23:15 Transparency and Member Engagement
29:39 Board Transparency and Communication Issues
31:36 Reforming the NRA Board Structure
35:27 Highlighting Reform Candidates
40:03 The Do Not Vote For List
44:22 The Importance of Collaboration
50:49 Focusing on the Second Amendment
52:43 Engaging the Younger Generation

Takeaways
Only 5% of eligible NRA voters have participated in recent elections.
The divide between reformers and the old guard is significant.
The New York AG's lawsuit revealed serious issues within the NRA.
The Four for Reform movement aims to change the board's dynamics.
Recent board meetings have led to important resolutions for reform.
The special litigation committee was dissolved, a key step for transparency.
Financial accountability is crucial for the NRA's future.
Reform candidates are committed to transparency and member engagement.
The NRA must collaborate with other gun rights organizations.
Voting for the full slate of reform candidates is essential for change.

Resources

Elect a New NRA
https://electanewnra.com/

Jeff Knox at Ammoland
https://www.ammoland.com/2025/01/lapierre-pays-up-nra-board-after-action-report/?

Bearing Arms (John Petrolino)
https://bearingarms.com/john-petrolino/2025/01/14/nra-board-election-face-off-reform-candidates-nra-20-n1227357?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR15QR9vD04CRhA6LuZjENJpu2OG2K2M-Ur5YMg9HUJGJ78Vpe85Cn4-nxk_aem_DwUET3iBBTZ6Y5wDzplIrQ

https://bearingarms.com/john-petrolino/2025/01/14/nra-board-election-face-off-old-guard-incumbents-strong-nra-n1227356?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3gZBb_OWvF-GErqplk6N7MCrP1_UJ4AelwHeHvRtgfJdn5IQBsq85Zndw_aem_hRMnD8O9E4t3u1TpqT5ZNQ

Only Guns and Money (John Richardson)
https://onlygunsandmoney.com/?p=34983

https://onlygunsandmoney.com/?p=34973

https://onlygunsandmoney.com/?p=34963


Previous Forge of Freedom Episode with Jeff Knox and John Richardson
https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-64-jeff-knox-fighting-to-save-the-nra/

https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-132-jeff-knox-fighting-to-save-the-nra/

https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-144-the-nras-fall-from-grace-corruption-trial-and-declining-influence/

https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-149-goals-guns-and-the-nras-future/


NRA in Danger
https://nraindanger.wordpress.com/2025/01/07/if-you-wonder-how-much-damage-the-cabal-did-to-nra/

https://nraindanger.wordpress.com/2025/01/12/january-2025-board-meeting/


Misc Resources re NRA Trial
https://nraindanger.wordpress.com/2024/08/15/ny-litigation-the-reformers-strike-back/

https://www.courthousenews.com/judge-no-nra-monitor-but-10-year-ban-on-wayne-lapierre/

https://thereload.com/judge-denies-government-monitor-over-nra-blocks-lapierre-from-rejoining-group/

https://x.com/JeffKnox/status/1818039030359146739

https://x.com/StephenGutowski/status/1818043823236202790

https://taitnra.substack.com/p/the-ball-is-in-the-nra-boards-court

https://www.ammoland.com/2024/08/judicial-verdict-nra-trial-accountability-governance-future-implications/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/309304408832668/posts/412603315169443

https://x.com/StephenGutowski/status/1824500721552588937


Keywords
Forge of Freedom, podcast, bench trial, NRA, New York Attorney General, Goals Conference, Knoxville, Tennessee, range day, vendor exhibits, educational panels, court-appointed monitor, interim decision, negotiation, NRA, legal battle, compliance monitor, resistance to change, reform, campaign, Board of Directors

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

01/16/2025

"In essence, the battle avoided is indeed a battle won, reinforcing the age-old wisdom that the best fight is the one not fought."

In today's landscape of civil unrest, the lines of self-defense in the face of mob violence have blurred. Here we discuss how to navigate it.

01/16/2025

Today, Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) reintroduced the Hearing Protection Act (HPA). This legislation reduces the overly burdensome barriers required to purchase a firearm suppressor to ease access for law-abiding citizens simply trying to obtain the hearing protection they need. 

01/13/2025

Episode 165. National Reciprocity: A Trojan Horse?

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the concept of national reciprocity in relation to fi****ms legislation, specifically focusing on H.R. 38, the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act. Ooley expresses mixed feelings about the bill, highlighting its potential short-term benefits for gun owners while raising concerns about the long-term implications of federal involvement in state rights. He delves into the historical context of the Second Amendment, the doctrine of incorporation, and compares the issue of national reciprocity to other licensing matters, ultimately urging listeners to consider the broader implications of such legislation.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to National Reciprocity
07:45 Understanding H.R. 38 and Its Implications
14:55 Historical Context of the Second Amendment
21:28 Concerns About Federal Involvement
29:30 Comparative Analysis with Other Licensing Issues

Resources

https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richard-hudson-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-constitutional-concealed-carry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/38/text

https://tenthamendmentcenter.com/2017/08/14/national-concealed-carry-reciprocity-bill-is-a-trojan-horse/

Guy Relford
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567587982704
https://omny.fm/shows/the-gun-guy-podcast/the-gun-guy-full-show-1-11-25

https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/214?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22reciprocity%22%7D&s=1&r=9

https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-60-the-tyranny-of-gun-control-with-jacob-g-hornberger/

https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-9-what-is-the-second-amendment/

https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/the-wasatch-report/episodes/The-Wasatch-Report-Episode-99-e2s8l8n

https://ccrkba.org/2025/01/09/ccrkba-supports-national-concealed-carry-legislation/

https://www.nraila.org/articles/20250108/urge-congress-to-protect-your-right-to-carry-contact-your-member-of-congress-today

https://www.scotusblog.com/case-files/cases/new-york-state-rifle-pistol-association-inc-v-bruen/

https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/576/644/ -opinion-3427255

https://x.com/RepThomasMassie/status/1861421430501409027

https://tenthamendmentcenter.com/2018/08/14/the-limited-scope-of-the-full-faith-and-credit-clause/

https://tenthamendmentcenter.com/2018/08/22/how-heller-botched-the-second-amendment/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yXmPqwujr4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y-xBDYdNh4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UCwFsVA3PE

Suzanne Sherman's The Wasatch Report Radio Show
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/the-wasatch-report/episodes/The-Wasatch-Report-Episode-99-e2s8l8n
https://tenthamendmentcenter.com/2017/08/14/national-concealed-carry-reciprocity-bill-is-a-trojan-horse/
https://www.facebook.com/CowgirlEsq/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel
https://www.suzannecsherman.com/
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/suzanne-sherman1

Takeaways
National reciprocity is a hot topic among fi****ms commentators.
H.R. 38 has significant support from pro-Second Amendment organizations.
Concerns exist about the long-term implications of federal involvement.
The Second Amendment was originally meant to restrain federal power.
Incorporation of the Bill of Rights to the states is a complex issue.
National reciprocity could compel states to recognize out-of-state licenses.
The federal government’s authority on this issue is a double-edged sword.
Comparisons to driver's licenses and marriage licenses are often made.
The current political climate could change, affecting gun rights.
It's essential to think critically about supporting national reciprocity.

Keywords
national reciprocity, H.R. 38, Second Amendment, concealed carry, fi****ms legislation, gun rights, federalism, incorporation, individual liberty, state laws

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

01/10/2025

When a politician offers you something at other people’s expense, remember these words of the poet John Dryden: “Better to shun the bait than struggle in the snare.”

Hugo Chavez promised Venezuelans a socialist paradise. People bought it, without pausing to realize that evil methods rarely result in good ends

01/09/2025

Episode 164. Embracing Winter

In the latest episode of "The Forge of Freedom," host Alex Ooley celebrates the podcast's second anniversary while discussing the philosophical and cultural significance of winter. He shares insights from Jeffrey Tucker's article, "The Case for Enduring Winter," which argues that winter is not merely a season to escape but one to embrace for its lessons on resilience, community, and the cyclical nature of life. Alex reflects on these themes in the context of his life in Southern Indiana, emphasizing the importance of experiencing all seasons to truly appreciate life's ebbs and flows. He also announces plans for more fi****ms-related content and mentions his recent guest appearance on the "Firearm Trainers Podcast." The episode concludes with a call to personal responsibility and vigilance in fostering freedom, inspired by a C.S. Lewis quote on focusing on local, actionable concerns rather than distant troubles.

Resources

About – The Forge of Freedom
https://forgeoffreedom.com/about/

Self Defense from Non-Human | The Firearm Trainer Podcast
https://www.firearmtrainerpodcast.com/2025/01/07/self-defense-from-non-human/

The Case for Enduring Winter | The Epoch Times
https://www.theepochtimes.com/opinion/the-case-for-enduring-winter-5787559?rs=SHRNCMMW

Other
https://x.com/jeffreyatucker/status/1876657842301681780
https://x.com/tillwehvfaces/status/1876961046486823178


Keywords
Forge of Freedom, fi****ms, self-defense, seasons, winter, personal responsibility, freedom, life lessons, C.S. Lewis, community


DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.