Prepared and Proven with Kenny DuBose, Jr.

About Prepared and Proven with Kenny DuBose, Jr.

Prepared and Proven Podcast is a readiness-focused show for everyday people who take responsibility for their own safety. Hosted by Kenny DuBose Jr., this podcast explores personal protection, mindset, situational awareness, emergency response, and the legal and emotional realities that follow critical incidents. Through solo segments and in-depth conversations with instructors, protectors, and experienced professionals, Prepared and Proven delivers practical insight, not hype, so you can think clearly, act decisively, and protect what matters most. Because preparedness isn’t fear. It’s responsibility.

Publisher

the DJr Group

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

27 Jan 2026

Latest episode

7 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 Sept 2026

   Home Defense Isn't What Most People Think

   Most people don't have a home defense plan. They have an idea. Owning a firearm doesn't automatically make you prepared. In this episode of The Readiness Report, Kenny DuBose explains why responsible home defense has very little to do with fantasy and everything to do with what you've done before something goes wrong. You'll learn why owning a firearm isn't the same as having a plan, why clearing your house is usually the wrong answer, how family communication changes your response, and why the layers around your home can buy you something incredibly valuable during an emergency: time. Get the FREE Field Guide Take what we talked about in this episode and start applying it to your own home. Download The 8 Layers That Buy You Time: A Practical Home Security Guide for Everyday Families. The guide will help you look at your home differently, identify areas that may need attention, and start improving your preparedness one layer at a time. Download The 8 Layers That Buy You Time (https://proven-readiness-gui.vibepreview.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) You don't have to fix everything tonight. Start with one thing you can improve today. Chapters 00:00 You Don't Have a Home Defense Plan 00:46 Home Defense for Normal People 02:25 Why Clearing Your House Is Dangerous 03:47 Training Recommendation: Apex Defense Group 04:49 The Layers That Buy You Time 05:32 Family Communication Changes Everything 06:59 Your Home Isn't a Fortress 07:57 Panic Exposes the Unprepared 08:47 Five Things You Should Do Tonight 11:04 Preparedness Is Built Before Chaos Mentioned in This Episode Apex Defense Group Winston-Salem, NC (336) 529-4019 Apex Defense Group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/apexdefensegroup?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Learn More Explore Prepared & Proven training, including the Developing a Home Emergency Plan course: Prepared and Proven (https://preparedandproven.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com) If this episode challenged the way you think about preparedness, follow the show, leave a review, and share it with someone who would benefit from hearing it. Stay safe. Stay prepared. Stay empowered.

2. 

   15 Aug 2026

   Are You Really Ready to Become a Firearms Instructor?

   What does it really take to become someone others can trust to teach them? In this episode of Instructor Track, I sit down with retired U.S. Navy veteran Doran Glass II for an honest conversation about his journey from lifelong firearms enthusiast and student to someone seriously considering taking the next step into firearms instruction. This conversation was recorded earlier in Doran's journey—and I intentionally kept it that way. Because sometimes there's more value in seeing where someone starts than only seeing where they eventually end up. Doran brings years of military experience, firearms training, and professional teaching experience to the conversation. But what stood out wasn't simply what he already knew. It was his willingness to keep learning. As Doran puts it: “One of the worst things I think I could be is a half-educated instructor.” That statement becomes the heart of our conversation. We talk about the experience that reignited his passion for teaching after he stepped in to help three inexperienced women at the range, why he's deliberately taking classes and learning from other instructors, and the questions he's asking himself before deciding he's ready to teach others. Because becoming an instructor isn't simply about earning another certification. It's about accepting the responsibility that comes with someone trusting you to help build their knowledge, skills, confidence, and judgment. IN THIS EPISODE • How Doran's 20-year Navy career shaped his approach to learning and preparedness • Why being willing to listen helped him qualify expert his first time shooting • The childhood firearms experience that changed how he later taught his own children • The range encounter that made him reconsider becoming an instructor • Why helping new shooters reminded him how much he enjoyed teaching • The difference between having experience and being ready to teach it • Why humility remains essential no matter how much experience you have • The value of continuing to take classes—even when you already know the fundamentals • Why Doran approaches every instructor with the mindset: “Teach me as if I know nothing.” • What it means to take responsibility for the people you eventually teach CHAPTERS: 00:00:00 The Instructor Track 01:12 Doran’s Firearms Journey 06:26 Growing Up Around Guns 11:36 Becoming a Concealed Carrier 19:16 The Moment That Sparked Teaching 24:33 Helping Shooters on the Range 30:25 What Instructor Track Is About 31:12 Military vs. Civilian Training 37:31 The Half-Educated Instructor 42:15 Good Instructors Keep Learning 45:02 Knowledge, Skill & the Journey ABOUT INSTRUCTOR TRACK Instructor Track is a Prepared & Proven series exploring the people, mindset, experiences, and professional development behind becoming an effective instructor. These aren't just conversations about certifications. They're conversations about growth, responsibility, mentorship, continued education, and what it takes to become someone others can trust to teach them. Never stop being a student. CONNECT WITH PREPARED & PROVEN For more episodes, training resources, and information about the DJr Empowerment Group: 🌐 preparedandproven.com (http://preparedandproven.com) Follow Prepared & Proven on your favorite social platforms and subscribe so you don't miss future episodes of: DISCLAIMER The information shared on Prepared & Proven is for educational and informational purposes only. Stay safe. Stay prepared. Stay empowered.

3. 

   17 Jun 2026

   After the Shooting Stops; The Consequences Begin

   Everybody talks about surviving the fight. Almost nobody talks about surviving what comes after it. Most people imagine a clean ending to a self-defense encounter. The threat is stopped, the police arrive, statements are made, and life returns to normal. Real life doesn't work that way. In this episode, Kenny DuBose Jr. explores the part of self-defense that rarely gets discussed: the aftermath. From investigations and temporary detention to attorney representation, emotional trauma, family stress, public scrutiny, and long-term self-doubt, the consequences of a defensive use of force can extend far beyond the moment itself. Topics include: • What happens after the shooting stops • Law enforcement response and investigations • Why articulation matters under stress • The importance of knowing your state laws • Emotional and psychological recovery • Family impact and social pressure • Avoidance, judgment, and emotional discipline • Why preparedness goes beyond marksmanship Preparedness is not about becoming eager to use force. It's about protecting life while avoiding unnecessary destruction whenever possible. Because if that moment ever comes and you survive it, you still have to live with what comes next. And that's the part nobody wants to talk about. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Learn More: DJR Empowerment Group https://thedjrgroup.org (https://thedjrgroup.org) Prepared and Proven Podcast https://preparedandproven.com (https://preparedandproven.com) ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Stay safe. Stay prepared. Stay empowered.

4. 

   8 Jun 2026

   Gear Doesn't Equal Readiness | Why Capability Matters More Than Equipment

   Most people believe preparedness starts with equipment. It doesn't. Real readiness is built through mindset, discipline, consistency, and preparation long before pressure arrives. In this episode, Kenny DuBose Jr. explains why capability, not equipment, is what ultimately determines performance when things become difficult, uncertain, or stressful. If you've ever wondered whether you're truly prepared or simply well-equipped, this episode is for you. In This Episode • Why people confuse gear with readiness • The difference between ownership and capability • Why training creates confidence • The role consistency plays in preparedness • How mindset influences performance under pressure • Practical ways to become more capable today Continue Your Training The DJr Empowerment Academy helps everyday people develop practical skills for real-world decision-making and preparedness. Courses include: • Should I Shoot... Or Can I? • Conflict Avoidance & Situational Awareness • Developing a Home Emergency Plan Learn more at: DJr Empowerment Academy (https://thedjrgroup.org/the-empowerment-academy) Connect Prepared & Proven: https://preparedandproven.com (https://preparedandproven.com) DJr Empowerment Group: https://thedjrgroup.org (https://thedjrgroup.org) Instagram: @preparedandproven (https://www.instagram.com/preparedandproven/) Facebook: @preparedandproven (https://facebook.com/preparedandproven) X: @preparedproven (https://x.com/preparedproven) YouTube: @preparedandproven (https://youtube.com/@preparedandproven) Key Thought "The people who perform best under pressure built capability long before the moment arrived." Stay safe. Stay prepared. Stay empowered.

5. 

   3 Jun 2026

   Women, Firearms & Confidence Under Pressure

   Instructor Track | Featuring Charlene Funderburg In this Instructor Track episode of the Prepared and Proven Podcast, Kenny DuBose sits down with Charlene Funderburg, Air Force veteran, certified firearms instructor, and founder of Heels & Steel Gun Club & Training Institute. Together, they discuss what responsible firearms instruction should actually look like, rooted in respect, fundamentals, and clear communication. This episode covers: • The importance of tone and respect in firearms training • Why fundamentals are non-negotiable • Creating safe, empowering environments for women • Training beyond the range - dry fire, holster work, and daily readiness • The responsibility of being your own first responder • Why unpreparedness carries real consequences Charlene also shares her journey from novice gun owner to instructor and community leader, and how Heels & Steel provides women with both skill development and belonging. Connect with Charlene Website: https://heelsandsteelgunclub.com/ (https://heelsandsteelgunclub.com/) Facebook: Heels & Steel Gun Club & Training Institute Based in Portsmouth, Virginia. 🎯 TRAIN WITH DJR EMPOWERMENT GROUP https://thedjrgroup.org (https://thedjrgroup.org) Preparedness is built. Confidence is earned. Standards matter. Stay safe. Stay prepared. Stay empowered.

6. 

   16 May 2026

   You’re Raising Adults, But Are Your Kids Prepared?

   You’re raising adults—but are they prepared? Most people think readiness starts later. It doesn’t. It starts at home. In this episode of the Prepared and Proven Podcast, I sat down with Kaleesha Washington, host of the Don’t Screw Up Your Kids Podcast, while I was out in Las Vegas for a training event. We got into something that doesn’t get talked about enough. Single moms… the pressure they carry… the decisions they’re making every day… and how that shapes the kids they’re raising. This isn’t just about parenting. It’s about decision-making, responsibility, and what shows up when pressure hits. 🎯 Train for outcomes. Not applause. ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Kaleesha Washington Instagram: @Kaleesha.washington (https://www.instagram.com/kaleesha.washington) YouTube: https://youtube.com/@DontScrewUpYourKids (https://youtube.com/@DontScrewUpYourKids) Podcast: Don’t Screw Up Your Kids (Spotify & Apple Podcasts) WHAT WE COVER What single moms are really carrying day to day How kids learn to react, or think, under pressure Why preparation starts long before the moment Teaching de-escalation, awareness, and responsibility Why “don’t touch” isn’t enough anymore What a real home safety mindset actually looks like Because when pressure shows up… you’re not building anything new. You’re falling back on what’s already there. CONNECT & TRAIN Training & Coaching: https://thedjrgroup.org (https://thedjrgroup.org) Follow: IG: @PreparedAndProven (https://www.instagram.com/preparedandproven/) FB: @preparedandproven (https://facebook.com/preparedandproven) Threads: @preparedandproven (https://threads.com/@PreparedAndProven) X: @preparedproven (https://x.com/preparedproven) Stay safe. Stay prepared. Stay empowered.

7. 

   6 Apr 2026

   Self-Defense Isn’t Over When the Fight Ends

   The Readiness Report | Episode 5 - Self-Defense Isn’t Over When the Fight Ends Most people think the hardest part of self-defense is the fight. It’s not. The hardest part comes after, when every decision you made is examined and judged under the law. In this episode, Kenny DuBose breaks down the legal reality every defender must accept. From the difference between feeling justified and being legally justified, to how emotional decisions and lack of legal understanding can lead to life-altering consequences. This episode challenges how you think about self-defense—and what it really means to be responsible for your actions. Because once the moment is over… what you did still has to hold up. 🔷 NEXT STEP If you’re ready to build real discipline behind your decision, explore the Empowerment Academy. Structured mindset training. Practical, repeatable habits. No hype. Just preparation. 🔗 Training & Courses: https://thedjrgroup.org (https://thedjrgroup.org) 🔷 CONNECT Follow the show: Instagram: @preparedandproven Facebook: @preparedandproven Website: https://preparedandproven.com (https://preparedandproven.com) Stay Safe Stay Prepared Stay EMPOWERED! #preparedandproven #everydaydefender #readinessoverreaction #trainwithpurpose

8. 

   21 Mar 2026

   Legal Confusion & Split-Second Decisions

   Everyday Defender — S1E3 A firearm doesn’t give you permission. Training doesn’t give you immunity. And adrenaline doesn’t change the law. In this episode of the Prepared and Proven Podcast, host Kenny DuBose Jr. sits down with Nobl3 Jenkins to examine how legal confusion creates hesitation, and why hesitation at the wrong moment carries serious consequences. Nobl3 is actively developing his competence as a student of the DJR Empowerment Academy, learning that readiness is more than skill with a tool. Together, this conversation explores how lawful decision-making under stress determines whether an action can be justified after the fact. This episode covers: Why knowing how to shoot is not the same as knowing when you can How legal uncertainty freezes decision-making under pressure What lawful justification actually requires in civilian self-defense Why articulation after the incident matters The responsibility that comes with choosing to carry If your goal is to protect yourself and your family — and to make decisions that can withstand scrutiny — this episode will challenge how you think about preparedness. About DJR Empowerment Academy DJR Empowerment Academy prepares responsible citizens to make sound, lawful decisions under pressure. Training emphasizes legal clarity, accountability, and readiness that holds up when it matters most. Learn more at: https://thedjrgroup.org (https://thedjrgroup.org) Follow the Prepared and Proven Podcast Instagram / Threads / Facebook: @PreparedAndProven

9. 

   10 Mar 2026

   Why Avoiding a Fight Is the Smartest Self-Defense Strategy

   The Readiness Report | Episode 4 - Avoidance Is a Tactical Win This is The Readiness Report—where mindset comes before tools, and responsibility comes before reaction. In this episode, Kenny DuBose, Jr. explains why avoidance is one of the most important skills in personal defense. Many conflicts escalate not because they were unavoidable, but because ego or pride kept people too close to danger. Learning to recognize escalation signals, create distance, and leave early can prevent situations that lead to violence or legal consequences. Avoidance is not retreat. It is controlled strength. This episode also sets the stage for the next discussion in the series: Feature Episode #3 — “Should I Shoot… Or Can I?” A conversation about the legal decision to use force and the responsibility that comes with it.

10. 

    3 Mar 2026

    You’re Not as Aware as You Think

    The Readiness Report - Season 1 Episode 3: You’re Not as Aware as You Think This is The Readiness Report, where mindset comes before tools, and responsibility comes before reaction. In this episode , Kenny examines the discipline of situational awareness, and why most people overestimate how aware they really are. This episode explores: • The difference between seeing and noticing • Why comfort lowers vigilance • How distraction shrinks reaction windows • Why predictability makes you readable • Practical awareness habits you can implement immediately Awareness isn’t about expecting the worst. It’s about refusing to be surprised. This episode stands alone within Season One’s Everyday Defender arc and builds the foundation for understanding avoidance and decision-making in future episodes. Stay safe. Stay prepared. Stay empowered. 📲 Follow: Instagram: @preparedandproven (https://instagram.com/@PreparedAndProven) Facebook: @preparedandproven (https://facebook.com/preparedandproven) X: @preparedproven (https://instagram.com/@PreparedProven) Threads: @preparedandproven (https://threads.com/@PreparedAndProven)

11. 

    25 Feb 2026

    Mindset Before the Moment

    In Episode 1, we defined what it means to be an Everyday Defender. In Episode 2, we build the discipline behind that decision. Readiness is not something you improvise under pressure. It’s a pre-decision rooted in identity, values, and mental conditioning. In this episode, Kenny DuBose, Jr. breaks down: Why “I’ll handle it if it happens” is a false plan How stress narrows options and delays decisions Why awareness and avoidance are essential mental habits The role of repetition in building confidence One daily habit to strengthen your readiness This episode prepares you for the deeper dive in: Feature Episode #1: The Reality Gap Feature Episode #2: Training Under Stress If you’re ready to strengthen your foundation, explore structured training through the Empowerment Academy (https://thedjrgroup.org). 📲 Follow the show: Instagram: @preparedandproven (https://www.instagram.com/preparedandproven/) Facebook: @preparedandproven (https://facebook.com/preparedandproven) Website: Prepared and Proven Podcast (https://preparedandproven.com/) Stay Safe Stay Prepared Stay EMPOWERED!

12. 

    25 Feb 2026

    The Reality Gap: What Civilians Get Wrong About Readiness

    Most people who think they’re prepared… aren’t. In this solo feature episode of the Prepared and Proven Podcast, Kenny DuBose Jr. exposes The Reality Gap, the difference between perceived readiness and real-world performance. This episode intentionally follows The Readiness Report, Episode 1, which defines "What It Means to Be an Everyday Defender". That episode establishes the mindset. This one challenges the myths that undermine it. Together, they form the foundation of Season One. You’ll learn why activity doesn’t equal readiness, how false confidence is created, and what actually holds up when decisions matter and pressure is real. Real readiness isn’t built on shortcuts. It’s built on judgment, accountability, and fundamentals that survive stress. 🔗 Training & Education: https://thedjrgroup.org (https://thedjrgroup.org) 📲 Follow the show: Instagram: @preparedandproven (https://www.instagram.com/preparedandproven/) Facebook: @preparedandproven (https://facebook.com/preparedandproven) Website: Prepared and Proven Podcast (https://preparedandproven.com)

13. 

    25 Feb 2026

    The Decision to Defend | What It Means to Be an Everyday Defender

    This is The Readiness Report, where mindset comes before tools, and responsibility comes before reaction. In this first episode, Kenny DuBose, Jr. defines what it truly means to be an Everyday Defender, not as a title or identity, but as a conscious decision to become your own first responder. What does that decision actually require? Understanding that responsibility is chosen, not assigned Rejecting calm denial and passive bystander thinking Recognizing that tools amplify skill, they do not replace discipline Accepting that preparedness begins long before a crisis This episode establishes the doctrinal foundation for Season One. It is intentionally followed by Feature Episode #1, "The Reality Gap", which challenges the common training myths and false confidence that often follow the decision to defend. Together, these episodes lay the groundwork for developing thinking defenders, not reactive ones. Preparedness isn’t accidental. It’s chosen. 📲 Follow the show: Instagram: @preparedandproven (https://www.instagram.com/preparedandproven/) Facebook: @preparedandproven (https://facebook.com/preparedandproven) Website: Prepared and Proven Podcast (https://preparedandproven.com/) Stay safe Stay prepared Stay EMPOWERED!

14. 

    27 Jan 2026

    Training Under Stress: Why Instagram Training Fails in Real Life

    A lot of people think they’re training because they’re active. They shoot. They post. They repeat. But performance under pressure doesn’t care what looked good online. In this episode of the Prepared and Proven Podcast (https://preparedandproven.com), host Kenny DuBose Jr. sits down with Shelvin Lilliston to discuss the difference between training for attention and training for real life. Shelvin entered the training space as a first-time student—not seeking validation, but competence. Through deliberate, feedback-driven training both on and offline, he’s developed a grounded perspective on what preparation actually requires and why realism under stress matters. Today, he’s on a path toward becoming an instructor in personal protection and home safety. This conversation explores: Why activity alone doesn’t equal readiness How social media can distort perceptions of competence The importance of honest feedback in training The difference between looking capable and being capable Why private coaching exists for those serious about performance If your goal is to protect yourself and your family—and to perform when it matters—this episode will challenge how you think about training and preparation. About DJR Empowerment Academy DJR Empowerment Academy focuses on preparing responsible citizens to make sound decisions under pressure. Training emphasizes realism, accountability, and lawful use of force—so students aren’t left guessing when it matters most. Learn more at: https://thedjrgroup.org (https://thedjrgroup.org) About MTAC Training At MTAC, your training is our top priority. We deliver practical, real-world instruction built on our comprehensive training cycle, from core skills to advanced applications under stress. Whether it’s firearm safety or advanced CQB, every course prepares you to perform when it matters most. https://www.mtactraining.com/ (https://www.mtactraining.com/) 📲 Follow the show: Instagram: @preparedandproven (https://www.instagram.com/preparedandproven/) Facebook: @preparedandproven (https://facebook.com/preparedandproven) Website: Prepared and Proven Podcast (https://preparedandproven.com/) Travis King, Competitive Shooter: @tkking89 (https://www.instagram.com/tkking89/)

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

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Guest appearances

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.