In this powerful first installment of Women’s Corner, Sofia sits down with Thea Von Syoc, known online as @vanleethea, a firearms instructor, competitive shooter, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu blue belt, and dedicated weightlifter.

Thea shares her journey from stepping onto the mats for the first time to stepping onto the range with confidence, breaking down what it really means to build strength—physically and mentally—as a woman in self-defense and shooting sports. Together, she and Sofia dive into the challenges women face entering male-dominated spaces, how fitness fuels confidence, and why fear is something to train through, not run from.

Whether you’re a woman just starting your journey in self-defense or a man who wants to better understand the female perspective in training, this episode brings raw honesty, humor, and motivation to push past limits—on the mat, in the gym, and on the range.

Tune in to hear how Vanleethea is redefining strength, one rep and one round at a time.

Episode Resources & Ways to Support the Show

• 🎥 Watch this episode on the She Shield YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@sheshieldpod
• 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen.
• 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode.
• ⭐ Rate & review the podcast: this helps the show reach more people who can benefit from self-defense education.
• 📲 Follow on Instagram: @sheshieldpod for episode highlights, behind-the-scenes, and episode updates. Check out your host Sofia @fit4fia.

To learn more about Sofia and or to train with her, visit fit4fia.com

Episode Resources:

1. Vanleethea on Instagram

In this fun and upbeat episode of She Shield Podcast, Sofia sits down with professional shooter Jalise Williams for an exciting Season 2 catch-up! Jalise has been doing incredible things in the competitive shooting world, and this conversation was filmed just before her journey to Africa for the IPSC World Shoot, where she made history as the first woman to qualify for the overall team.

The two had just wrapped up a shotgun world qualifier together, so expect plenty of laughs, a little slap-happy energy, and some great behind-the-scenes stories from their training journey. From competition prep to mindset, travel, and sisterhood in the shooting community, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves seeing women push the boundaries in the sport.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where Jalise returns to share her experiences after the World Shoot!

Episode Resources & Ways to Support the Show

• 🎥 Watch this episode on the She Shield YouTube
• 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen.
• 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode.
• ⭐ Rate & review the podcast: this helps the show reach more people who can benefit from self-defense education.
• 📲 Follow on Instagram: @sheshieldpod for episode highlights, behind-the-scenes, and episode updates. Check out your host Sofia @fit4fia.

To learn more about Sofia and or to train with her, visit fit4fia.com

Episode Resources:

1. Blue Star Experiences: Jalise Williams' Website

Season 2 of She Shield Podcast is here! In this premiere episode, Sofia takes you Behind the Shield to share her personal journey and the mission driving this show. From earning a black belt in Mu Sool Won at just thirteen, to training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and concealed carry, Sofia has built her life around the layers of self-defense.

This episode is a chance to hear her story first-hand,how she went from martial arts student to firearms instructor, competitor, and advocate for preparedness. You’ll also get a look at what to expect this season: deeper conversations with industry experts, solo episodes breaking down practical skills, and new corners that bring fresh perspectives to self-defense, competition shooting, martial arts, and concealed carry.

Whether you’re new to the podcast or have been here since day one, this is the perfect place to start.

Episode Resources & Ways to Support the Show

• 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube: @SheShieldPod or @Fit4Fia
• 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen.
• 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode.
• ⭐ Rate & review the podcast: this helps the show reach more people who can benefit from self-defense education.
• 📲 Follow on Instagram: @sheshieldpod for episode highlights, behind-the-scenes, and episode updates. Check out your host Sofia @fit4fia.

To learn more about Sofia and or to train with her, visit fit4fia.com

In Episode 123 of She Shield Podcast, Sofia sits down with Lanny Barnes—a three-time Olympian in biathlon, professional shooter, artist, and all-around force of nature. Lanny offers an unfiltered look at what the Olympic experience is really like, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from her years competing in one of the most demanding sports on earth.

Now preparing for the Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC) World Shoot, Lanny opens up about the surprising crossover between her biathlon background and high-level competition shooting. From skiing with a rifle on her back in sub-zero conditions to mastering dynamic movement with a carbine, she breaks down the mental and physical preparation required to compete at the world-class level—then and now.

Sofia and Lanny also dive into personal safety, training philosophies, and how Lanny’s Western roots, artistic mindset, and Olympic grit continue to shape her approach to life on and off the range.

Topics covered include:

• What the Olympics are really like behind the scenes
• Lanny’s transition from biathlon to PCC shooting
• Preparing for extreme sport at the elite level
• The crossover between endurance shooting and dynamic firearms competition
• Her take on personal safety, travel preparedness, and self-reliance
• Advice for women entering the firearms and self-defense world

Follow the pod on instagram for more episode updates @sheshieldpod. Thank you all for your encouragement and support.

If you are interested in exclusive content, become a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/sheshieldpod

Podcast Sponsors: Links and Codes

1. Big Tex Ordnance: your soon-to-be favorite retailer for all of your firearms needs. Use code “FIT4FIA” for 10% off your BTO order and to support the pod via https://www.bigtexordnance.com/?ref=79990
2. Ciguera Gear: https://ciguera.com/

All links: https://linktr.ee/sheshieldpod

Hold My Guns Firearms Storage for Those in Need: https://www.holdmyguns.org/

Episodes are mixed and mastered by the talented Brendon Galanos.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

1. Lanny's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lanny_oakley/reels/?hl=en

2. Lanny's art: http://www.theolympianartist.com/

In Episode 122 of the She Shield Podcast, Sofia sits down with Michael Arterburn—retired law enforcement officer and the force behind Killer Bee Tactical. With 23 years of service, including roles as a Domestic Violence Detective, Internet Crimes Against Children Detective, and Bomb Technician, Michael brings a wealth of experience to our discussion.

We delve into his transition from law enforcement to becoming a prominent voice on social media, where he shares hard-hitting takes on online and real-life safety.

Watch the full video podcast on YouTube here

Key Topics Covered:

• Home Defense Strategies: Michael outlines common security oversights homeowners make and offers top recommendations for enhancing home safety, both structurally and behaviorally.
• Personal Safety in Public Spaces: We discuss essential habits and situational awareness techniques to minimize risks in everyday environments like parking lots, gas stations, and public transit.
• Hotel and Travel Safety: Michael shares specific precautions travelers should take when booking accommodations and securing themselves during stays at hotels or Airbnbs.
• Child Safety & Kidnapping Prevention: Drawing from his experience as a Crimes Against Children Detective, Michael addresses misconceptions parents have about child safety and proactive steps to protect children from potential predators, both online and in public spaces.
• Lessons from Real Cases: We explore recent cases that offer important lessons for individuals to inform their own safety measures.

Michael emphasizes the importance of open communication between parents and children, especially regarding online safety and the dangers of sextortion.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in practical, real-world safety advice from someone who has dedicated his life to protecting others.

Podcast Sponsors:

Big Tex Ordnance: your soon-to-be favorite retailer for all of your firearms needs. Use code “FIT4FIA” for 10% off your BTO order and to support the pod via https://www.bigtexordnance.com/?ref=79990

All links: https://linktr.ee/sheshieldpod

Hold My Guns Firearms Storage for Those in Need: https://www.holdmyguns.org/

Episodes are mixed and mastered by the talented Brendon Galanos.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

1. All of Michael's Links

2. Bark App and the Bark Phone

3. Delete your personal data on "Delete Me"

In Episode 121 of She Shield, I sit down with competitive shooter and coach Joey Sauerland to talk about the power of dry fire and the tools that can take your training to the next level. Joey shares how using a shot timer, metronome, and structured drills can help shooters of all levels refine their skills and measure real progress.

We also dive into what it truly means to define success in shooting. Is it about speed, accuracy, consistency, or something else entirely? Joey breaks down how different aspects of performance—such as efficiency, control, and decision-making—play a role in becoming a well-rounded shooter. He shares insights on setting goals, tracking improvement, and building a training routine that maximizes results without wasting time or effort.

If you’re looking for practical ways to improve your shooting without always relying on live fire, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in now!

Follow the pod on instagram for more episode updates @sheshieldpod. Thank you all for your encouragement and support.

If you are interested in exclusive content, become a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/sheshieldpod

Podcast Sponsors: Links and Codes

1. Big Tex Ordnance: your soon-to-be favorite retailer for all of your firearms needs. Use code “FIT4FIA” for 10% off your BTO order and to support the pod via https://www.bigtexordnance.com/?ref=79990
2. Walkers Inc. Hearing Protection: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.walkersgameear.com/
3. SOG: Use code “SHESHIELD” to save and to support the pod https://sogknives.com/
4. GPS Range Bags: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.goutdoorsproducts.com/
5. Birchwood Casey: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.birchwoodcasey.com/
6. Cold Steel: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.coldsteel.com/
7. Ciguera Gear: https://ciguera.com/

All links: https://linktr.ee/sheshieldpod

Hold My Guns Firearms Storage for Those in Need: https://www.holdmyguns.org/

Episodes are mixed and mastered by the talented Brendon Galanos.

Resources:

1. Train with Joey

In Episode 120 Sofia interviews Tre’Von Barber is the owner and head firearms instructor at Barber Training Solutions, LLC, based in Fort Mill, SC. As an NRA-licensed, SLED-approved instructor and a USPSA Master Class competitor, Tre’Von brings a wealth of experience in both firearms training and competitive shooting.

At Barber Training Solutions, Tre’Von focuses on firearms mechanics, manipulation, and efficiency, offering highly structured training and coaching that emphasizes fundamentals, confidence, and skill-building. His approach is simple yet highly effective—building strong foundations, increasing competency, and pushing each client’s limits to enhance their shooting performance.

In Episode 120, we discuss advancements in USPSA competition shooting, his journey as a firearms instructor, and his philosophy on training and skill development. Whether working with beginners or experienced shooters, Tre’Von’s goal is to help his students achieve greater precision, efficiency, and confidence with their firearms.

Follow the pod on instagram for more episode updates @sheshieldpod. Thank you all for your encouragement and support.

If you are interested in exclusive content, become a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/sheshieldpod

Podcast Sponsors: Links and Codes

1. Big Tex Ordnance: your soon-to-be favorite retailer for all of your firearms needs. Use code “FIT4FIA” for 10% off your BTO order and to support the pod via https://www.bigtexordnance.com/?ref=79990
2. Walkers Inc. Hearing Protection: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.walkersgameear.com/
3. SOG: Use code “SHESHIELD” to save and to support the pod https://sogknives.com/
4. GPS Range Bags: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.goutdoorsproducts.com/
5. Birchwood Casey: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.birchwoodcasey.com/
6. Cold Steel: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.coldsteel.com/
7. Ciguera Gear: https://ciguera.com/

All links: https://linktr.ee/sheshieldpod

Hold My Guns Firearms Storage for Those in Need: https://www.holdmyguns.org/

Episode shorts are made by the talented Lisa Hamilton and are mixed and mastered by the talented Brendon Galanos.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

1. Tre'Von's Website

In Episode 119, Sofia interviews Marisa Laren, a multi-talented entrepreneur, artist, athlete, and advocate with a passion for living life to the fullest. A professional tattoo artist since 2012, she gained national recognition as a contestant on Ink Master Season 6 in 2015. In 2020, she launched her own private studio, Common Place, where she continues to create custom tattoo work. That same year, she rekindled her love for painting, now specializing in custom oil paintings.

A dedicated athlete, Marisa has been a sponsored 1st Phorm athlete since 2014, originally competing in bodybuilding. Today, her training focuses on functional fitness, allowing her to pursue her love of adventure, hiking, and competitive shooting. She is also a vocal advocate for mental health and invisible illnesses, openly sharing her journey with multiple autoimmune diseases to inspire others.

Marisa serves on the board of War Party Ranch, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women from abusive or trafficked backgrounds by equipping them with skills in horsemanship and stockmanship. As a survivor of abuse herself, she understands firsthand the challenges of breaking free from toxic cycles and is committed to helping others achieve the independence necessary to rebuild their lives.

In addition to her creative and advocacy work, Marisa is an avid traveler. Since 2017, she has embraced solo travel and, more recently, has begun hosting group travel experiences around the world. These curated trips help individuals—whether solo travelers or adventure seekers—build confidence, form meaningful connections, and explore the beauty of the world together.

From her artistry to her athleticism and humanitarian work, Marisa embodies resilience and determination, making her an inspiring guest on She Shield.

Follow the pod on instagram for more episode updates @sheshieldpod. Thank you all for your encouragement and support.

If you are interested in exclusive content, become a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/sheshieldpod

Podcast Sponsors: Links and Codes

1. Big Tex Ordnance: your soon-to-be favorite retailer for all of your firearms needs. Use code “FIT4FIA” for 10% off your BTO order and to support the pod via https://www.bigtexordnance.com/?ref=79990
2. Walkers Inc. Hearing Protection: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.walkersgameear.com/
3. SOG: Use code “SHESHIELD” to save and to support the pod https://sogknives.com/
4. GPS Range Bags: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.goutdoorsproducts.com/
5. Birchwood Casey: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.birchwoodcasey.com/
6. Cold Steel: Use code “SHESHIELD20” to save and to support the pod https://www.coldsteel.com/
7. Ciguera Gear: https://ciguera.com/

All links: https://linktr.ee/sheshieldpod

Hold My Guns Firearms Storage for Those in Need: https://www.holdmyguns.org/

Episode shorts are made by the talented Lisa Hamilton and are mixed and mastered by the talented Brendon Galanos.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

1. Marisa's Website

2. Get involved with Marisa's nonprofit, War Party Ranch