Ep. 194 | The Leadership Shift Every Great Instructor Makes w/ Brent Hickmon, Haven Defense Co.

Ep. 194 | The Leadership Shift Every Great Instructor Makes w/ Brent Hickmon, Haven Defense Co.

Author: Lora Thorson, Defenders USA July 30, 2026 Duration: 55:55

What separates a good instructor from a great leader?

It’s not experience. It’s not talent. It’s the willingness to keep learning.

In this episode of Defenders LIVE, Lora sits down with Brent Hickmon, founder of Haven Defense Company and Defenders USA instructor, to reflect on his first experience teaching at the A Girl & A Gun National Conference. Together, they unpack one of the most important leadership lessons Brent learned: the best instructors aren’t focused on proving themselves. They’re focused on serving the people in front of them. That shift changes everything.

Their conversation explores the role of humility, feedback, and continual growth in becoming an effective leader, whether you’re teaching on the range, leading a team, or raising a family. Brent also shares practical insights on firearm safety, preparing for training, and the exciting future of Haven Defense Company as it expands its business and training opportunities.

Great leaders don’t stop learning.

They stay coachable, serve others well, and continue refining their craft.

Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, become a paid subscriber.

The best leaders never stop learning.

In this conversation with Brent Hickmon, we explore the leadership shift that separates good instructors from great ones. It’s not about having all the answers. It’s about serving others, staying humble, and being willing to grow.

You’ll learn:

Why great leaders actively seek feedback

How humility builds trust and influence

The mindset that transforms instructors

Practical advice for new shooters entering their first class

Brent’s vision for the future of Haven Defense Company

Whether you’re an instructor, business owner, parent, coach, or leader, this conversation is a reminder that leadership isn’t about being the expert in the room. It’s about helping others become better.

Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations.

More about Brent at HavenDefenseCo.com.

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Hosted by Lora Thorson of Defenders USA, the Defenders LIVE Podcast moves beyond simple technique to explore the broader, often unspoken aspects of personal defense. This isn't just about what happens on the range; it's about cultivating the mindset, awareness, and practical wisdom you carry into everyday life. Each conversation is grounded in real-world experience, offering tangible insights that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and lived application. You'll hear discussions that delve into situational preparedness, legal considerations, and the psychological resilience required to navigate complex scenarios. The aim is to foster a more competent and thoughtful approach to self-reliance, making this podcast a resource for anyone committed to responsible defense. By integrating education with personal growth, these episodes provide a space for listeners to reflect on their own journey and develop a more holistic understanding of what it means to be prepared. Tune in for honest dialogue that empowers you to think critically and act responsibly, strengthening your confidence both in skill and in character.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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