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The advice about “look at the bird” is only the beginning—and if you’re missing targets, you may be missing the real lesson. Dominic Grossi breaks down the visual discipline, timing, and intentionality that separate casual shooters from consistent competitors, and explains why the tiniest shift in how you see the target can change everything. Dominic shares how he went from helping teammates in college to becoming the NSCA’s Assistant Chief Shooting Instructor on the sporting clays side, and why the sport’s rapid evolution demands a more modern coaching curriculum. He and host Cody Matson get into the real mechanics behind target reading, the difference between seeing the bird and actually understanding where the gun is, and why too much conscious calculation can sabotage a shot before the shell ever leaves the barrel. You’ll discover why some shooters get lost in the “no barrel awareness” conversation, how visual discipline actually works in live fire, and why communication has to be tailored to each athlete’s eyes, background, and body.

Dominic also explains how he approaches lessons, why lateral speed matters more than distance early on, and how a handful of clear, intentional decisions can do more for your score than chasing perfection ever will.If you’re a sporting clays shooter, coach, or competitor trying to help someone finally have that lightbulb moment, this episode delivers practical insight you can use immediately. It’s especially valuable for anyone who feels stuck in overthinking, struggles with eye dominance or visual clarity, or wants to understand what elite coaching really looks like when the game keeps changing. Dominic’s perspective is equal parts technical and practical, shaped by years of coaching, mentorship from top names in the sport, and a deep respect for the evolving knowledge base of the shooting community. Perfect for shooters who want better answers, better process, and better results.

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

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

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

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What happens when an analytical mind learns when to stop analyzing?

In this episode of Clay Mastermind: Mental Excellence & Industry Insights, Dawn Grant sits down with longtime competitive shooter, instructor, writer, and women’s shooting advocate Dee Orr for a conversation that moves from elite performance to one of the most successful initiatives bringing women into Sporting Clays.

Dee’s rise in the sport happened quickly. After getting involved in Sporting Clays in the early 2000s, she became the 2005 Maryland State Lady Champion, represented Team USA in England in 2008 when the team won gold, and became a longtime All-American. She also began writing for Clay Shooting USA. Dee shares in the episode that she is being inducted into the NSCA Hall of Fame and receiving the Hal duPont Service Award.

But some of Dee’s most valuable lessons aren't about mechanics.

Dee and Dawn dive into the battle between the analytical mind and the instinctive skills needed to perform. Dee explains how she analyzes a target, makes her plan—and then deliberately releases that thinking so she can trust her eyes and hands. Her simple reminder: look at the target and trust what you see.

They also discuss competition pressure, why shooters become too careful when scores matter, learning to focus one target at a time, and why sometimes the breakthrough happens when you finally let go.

Then Dee shares the story and mission of the FSCA Honey Belles, a Florida Sporting Clays Association initiative designed to make women feel comfortable and confident entering the shooting sports. Through education, women teaching women, beginner clinics, affordable access, and a supportive community, the program has introduced more than 1,200 women to the sport.

It's a conversation about shooting—but even more about trust, focus, community, confidence, and getting out of your own way.

Dee Orr Links

FSCA Honeybelles Website:
https://sites.google.com/view/fscahoneybelles/home

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/HoneybellesFL

Email:
FSCAHoneybelles@gmail.com

Syren USA / Dee Orr Feature:
Meet the FSCA Honeybelles and Dee Orr

NSCA Hall of Fame Announcement:
Dee Orr – 2026 NSCA Hall of Fame / Hal duPont Service Award

Dawn Grant Links

https://dawngrant.com/

https://mindmastered.com/

https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

Free webinar here: https://f.mtr.cool/wehmqlchqh

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On this episode of the Matson Shooting Academy Podcast, hosted by Cody Matson and brought to you by The Clay Lab Network, 2014 National Champion and veteran coach Pat Lieske explains why better shooting begins with a system. Instead of simply chasing the miss, Pat focuses on building an intentional, repeatable process that helps shooters understand exactly what happened on every target. From maintaining detailed logbooks and developing effective pre-shot routines to using visualization and honest self-evaluation, he shares the habits that separate advanced competitors from shooters who struggle to turn practice into better scores.

Pat breaks down how a shooter’s log can become the foundation of long-term improvement and why identifying one major weakness should guide most of a focused practice session. He explains his angle, speed, and distance method for reading targets, along with how to determine whether a miss came from the initial setup, poor execution, or an incorrect target read. Pat also discusses the power of visualization, showing how mental repetitions can reinforce the same skills developed through live-fire practice. His approach gives shooters a clear framework for diagnosing mistakes, making productive adjustments, and building a pre-shot routine that remains dependable under pressure.

The conversation also explores Pat Lieske’s journey from his early years shooting skeet to witnessing the growth of sporting clays in the United States. He explains why he left public accounting to build a full-time career in the shooting industry and how that decision led to a business centered on coaching, gun sales, and range operations. Pat also shares the creative event formats he used to attract hundreds of new NSCA members and discusses why creating a welcoming environment is essential to growing the sport.

Pat Lieske is the owner of Michigan Shooting Centers, with locations in Lake Orion and Brighton, Michigan. He is a longtime competitor, instructor, and industry professional known for his practical, process-first approach to shooting. He also serves as the United States importer for Cayman and Cosmi shotguns. This episode is essential listening for sporting clays shooters, coaches, and anyone looking to turn more practice into measurable performance. Pat delivers high-level, immediately useful advice that can change the way you prepare for, read, and approach every target.

Pat Lieske: (248) 437-2784 or (248) 693-0567

Website: https://mishoot.com/shooting-instruction/

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

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

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

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MSA Podcast Episode features Unlock the secret to effortless shooting mastery by tapping into your subconscious — discover how visual control and mental focus elevate your game beyond the physical. In this episode, renowned eye doctor Dr. Richard Colo joins shooting coach Cody Matson for a deep dive into the mental mechanics behind precision shooting. They explore groundbreaking insights on how to eliminate flinches, master visual attention, and seamlessly let the shot happen, rather than force it.You’ll discover:

· The crucial difference between “making it happen” and “letting it happen,” and how your eyes lead your hands for more effortless, confident shots.

· The three core elements of sports vision training: visual control, eyes-first focus, and soft fuzzy attention — and how to harness them for peak performance.

· The impact of mental state transitions, like from conscious to subconscious, on shot accuracy — including how to conquer the dreaded flinch and target panic.

· Practical routines, including breath control and eye pauses, that set up your brain to fire smoothly at the perfect moment.

· Why high-level shooters accelerate their gun first, and how your visual attention influences that process.

Whether you're a competitive shooter striving for that next level or an enthusiast eager to shoot more consistently, this episode reveals how understanding and training your vision can transform your results. Don’t rely on willpower alone — learn how your brain and eyes can work together behind the scenes to make shooting feel natural and effortless. Join Cody and Dr. Colo as they unpack proven techniques, surprising research, and personal experiences that put the power of the subconscious into your hands. Improve your focus, reduce anxiety, and unlock your true shooting potential—because seeing is winning. Perfect for shooters at all levels ready to go beyond mechanics and tap into your mental game. Tune in, and start letting your eyes do the work for you. Guest: Dr. Richard Colo, an acclaimed sports vision expert, brings over 35 years of experience helping shooters see their best. His work has changed how many top athletes approach performance through vision training.

Doctor Richard Colo Links

Website: https://doctorcolo.com/

Phone: (860) 558-4610

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

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

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

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On this episode of Matson Shooting Academy Podcast hosted by The Clay Lab Network, imagine transforming the way you approach clay shooting with practical, step-by-step insights from a seasoned pro who's been in your shoes. Cody Jesse, a top-tier shooter and expert coach, shares the secrets behind building confidence in beginners, fine-tuning advanced skills, and creating courses that inspire both pros and newcomers. If you're tired of shooting frustration and want to unlock your full potential, this episode is your game-changer. Cody starts by revealing how his upbringing in hunting and outdoor sports laid the foundation for his success—not just as a shooter, but as a coach passionate about bringing others into the sport. He discusses his journey from hunting guide to leading the redesign of a premier clay target course, emphasizing how terrain, course design, and relationship-building elevate the shooting experience. You'll discover his philosophy on progressive target presentation—from easy incomers to challenging pairs—and how tailoring targets to shooters' handedness or skill level boosts confidence and consistency. We break down actionable coaching strategies Cody uses at every level: introducing new shooters safely with lightweight, low-recoil shotguns; teaching visual detail to improve target tracking; and instilling the mental discipline needed for mastery. Cody emphasizes how understanding and leveraging that core visual and mechanical "tool set" transforms novices into capable, confident shooters—without overwhelm. He also dives into his own practice routines: watching targets, isolating weaknesses like barrel control, and how to avoid common pitfalls like pushing beyond one's skill level too quickly. Why does this matter? Because in a sport where perfection is built on minute adjustments, understanding how to craft the right environment and mindset can turn obstacles into opportunities. Whether you're shooting for fun, competition, or just wanting to enjoy the outdoors with family, you'll learn how to make every shot count—and how to foster growth in others.Perfect for beginners eager to learn, seasoned shooters hungry for improvement, and course owners aiming to create memorable experiences—this episode equips you with the tools, mindset, and inspiration to elevate your entire shooting journey. Don't just shoot—shoot smarter, safer, and more confidently.

Cody Jesse is a professional shooter, course designer, and passionate instructor known for turning novices into confident marksmen. With extensive experience redesigning top courses and mentoring shooters of all levels, Cody’s insights can reshape your approach—whether on the range or in coaching.Hit play now and discover the keys to unlocking your best shot yet!

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

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

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

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Unlock the secrets behind becoming a top-tier shooting instructor as Philip Puckorius—NSCA's new chief instructor—shares insights from his 30+ years of experience. Discover how continuous learning, effective teaching frameworks, and mastering the art of diagnostics can elevate your coaching game and help shooters reach their highest potential.

This episode dives deep into the evolution of instructor education, emphasizing the importance of practical experience—like logging hours and taking lessons—to truly master the craft. Phil reveals innovative strategies for delivering effective, engaging training through seminars, digital modules, and community-driven solutions that are affordable and sustainable. You'll learn how to diagnose the root causes of misses, communicate effectively, and instill confidence in your students, transforming not only their skills but your reputation as a coach.

We break down the core components of the NSCA instructor pathway—what it takes to move from novice to elite—and explore the criteria, qualifications, and mindset keys needed to achieve level three certification. Phil also shares how the program is continuously evolving to meet modern coaching demands, aiming for a culture of excellence, safety, and shared knowledge that benefits shooters at all levels.

Perfect for aspiring instructors, experienced coaches, and serious competitors alike—if you're committed to making a real impact in the sport, this episode will equip you with the mindset, tools, and frameworks to thrive. Whether you're looking to elevate your coaching credentials or simply want insights on how top performers learn and improve, this conversation is a must-listen.

Philip Puckorius is the chief instructor at NSCA, a 30-year veteran of shotgun coaching, and a dedicated educator passionate about advancing shooting instruction through proven methods and ongoing professional development. His work bridges the gap between theory and practice, helping coaches and athletes unlock their true potential.

Don't miss the lessons that can reshape your coaching approach and propel your shooters to new heights. Hit play now and start your journey toward mastery.

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

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

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

Support the show

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

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