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In this episode of the Matson Shooting Academy podcast, host Cody Matson welcomes Travis Mears, a seasoned shooter and owner of Defender Outdoors Clay Sports Ranch. Travis shares his journey from a young shooter to a competitive athlete, discussing his early experiences, the establishment of his shooting range, and his current competitive season. The conversation delves into the mental strategies required to handle pressure during competitions, the importance of preparation, and the need for consistency in shooting techniques. Travis emphasizes the significance of practice and the mental game in achieving success in shooting sports. In this conversation, Travis Mears shares insights on developing a personal shooting style, the importance of adapting techniques to individual needs, and the significance of stepping out of one's comfort zone. He discusses the '20% rule' for hitting fast targets, the necessity of understanding target presentations, and how to visualize lead and distance. Mears also touches on the crossover between trick shooting and tournament shooting, emphasizing the need to switch mindsets between practice and competition. The discussion concludes with an invitation to upcoming shooting events and a call to explore the world of shooting further.

Travis Mears

Website: https://www.travismears.com/

Defender Outdoors: https://defenderoutdoors.com/

Shotgun Passion with Travis Mears YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf6yvB-9Fa6s59e9uNEOH7w

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

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

Takeaways

· Travis founded Defender Outdoors Clay Sports Ranch to combine his passion for shooting with business.

· He emphasizes the importance of mental strategies in overcoming pressure during competitions.

· Preparation for competitions involves extensive practice and setting personal goals.

· Travis believes in the importance of consistency in shooting techniques.

· He advocates for a focused approach to practice, simulating competition conditions.

· Travis shares insights on how to handle pressure and maintain composure during shoots.

· He discusses the significance of visualizing targets and executing routines effectively.

· Travis highlights the need for shooters to find their rhythm and maintain efficiency throughout their rounds. You have to build your own style and routine.

· The more tools you have in your toolbox, the better off you'll be.

· The 20% rule helps with big fast targets.

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In this episode of the Matson Shooting Academy podcast, host Cody Matson interviews Paula Moore, the chief shooting instructor at Orvis Sandanona. Paula shares her journey from being a veterinary technician to becoming a shooting instructor, detailing her experiences in the rigorous Level Three certification process. She discusses the rich history of Orvis Sandanona, the unique customer experience it offers, and the importance of gun fitting. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Shotgun Classic 2025, featuring a star-studded lineup of instructors. In this episode, Paula Moore discusses the upcoming Shotgun Classic event, detailing its structure, the culinary experience, and the unique format of instruction. The conversation emphasizes the importance of inclusivity for all skill levels, the significance of patience in teaching, and the various coaching styles that instructors bring to the event. Listeners are encouraged to sign up and experience the event for themselves, highlighting the value of learning from different instructors and the community aspect of the event.

Email: Sandanonevents@orvis.com

Phone: (845) 677-9701

Website: https://www.orvis.com/sandanona-shooting-grounds.html

Address: Sandanona Shooting Grounds, 3047 Sharon Turnpike, Millbrook, New York 12545

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

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

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

Takeaways

· Paula Moore transitioned to shooting in her late twenties.

· The Level Three certification process is rigorous and challenging.

· Orvis Sandinona is the oldest licensed hunting preserve in America.

· Customer experience is a top priority at Orvis Sandanona.

· Gun fitting is crucial for effective shooting.

· Paula encourages trying different guns before purchasing.

· The Shotgun Classic is a significant event in the shooting community.

· A diverse lineup of instructors will be featured at the Shotgun Classic 2025.

· Participants can sign up for multiple sessions with different instructors.

· The event includes high-quality meals and entertainment.

· Unlimited shooting opportunities are available for attendees.

· The new format allows for better bonding between instructors and students.

· Accommodations are available nearby, but not on-site.

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10% OFF ShotKam Coupon Code “TheClayLab”: https://bit.ly/TheClayLab-ShotKam

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In this episode of the Mattson Shooting Academy Podcast, host Cody Matson interviews Todd Hitch, the 2025 U.S. Open Champion, in a compelling conversation that explores the mindset, preparation, and path behind his major victory. Winning the U.S. Open—one of the most prestigious events sanctioned by the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA)—is a monumental achievement, marking Todd as one of the top competitors in the sport.

Todd dives into the strategies that led to his success, including a focus on timing, consistency, and maintaining mental composure under pressure. He emphasizes the importance of “letting go” during the shot—trusting his instincts and training rather than overthinking. Aggression and confidence, he explains, are key at the highest levels of competition.

His journey from the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) to competing on the national stage with the NSCA highlights years of growth, mentorship, and long-term goal setting. Todd reflects on how these experiences helped shape his shooting style and mental approach.

Todd’s success is also fueled by the support of several major sponsors. He is proudly backed by Remington, whose shotguns he relies on in competition; Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing, which ensures peak firearm performance; Castellani USA, which outfits him with professional-grade shooting gear; and Jack Link’s, supporting his performance with nutrition and energy.

The episode also touches on Todd’s earlier major win at the Kings Cup, showcasing his continued rise through the sport. His story is one of relentless dedication, adaptability, and passion, offering valuable lessons for aspiring shooters everywhere. Todd Hitch’s 2025 U.S. Open title stands as a powerful testament to what focus and commitment can achieve at the highest levels of competitive sporting clays.

Todd Hitch: (865) 307-2769

Website: https://toddhitch.com/

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

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

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

Takeaways

-Todd Hitch emphasizes the importance of timing in shooting.

-He dedicated 20 practice days leading up to the US Open.

-Consistency in technique is crucial for success.

-Mental focus and process-oriented thinking help overcome pressure.

-Todd believes in the importance of staying aggressive during shooting.

-He uses specific training techniques to improve his performance.

-Observing other shooters can provide valuable insights.

-Todd's motivation comes from personal standards rather than competition with others.

-The balance between aggression and caution is key in shooting. Letting go is crucial for making successful shots.

-Recognizing when to pull the trigger is key.

-Long-term goals are essential for success i

Support the show

10% OFF ShotKam Coupon Code “TheClayLab”: https://bit.ly/TheClayLab-ShotKam

Visit Us at www.claylabusa.com for videos, podcasts, and articles about Sporting Clays.

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