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In this segment of Eye on the Target Radio, host Amanda Suffecool interviews bestselling author Jack Carr at SHOT Show, discussing his background, writing process, and upcoming projects. Carr talks about returning to SHOT Show for the first time since 2020 and describes the event as a reunion filled with energy, creativity, and support from fans. Amanda shares how excited listeners were when they learned she would be interviewing him, with many sending questions and praising his books.

Carr explains that he knew from the age of seven that he wanted to become a Navy SEAL. Growing up with a librarian mother, he developed a deep love for reading and storytelling. Influenced by thriller authors such as Tom Clancy, Nelson DeMille, and David Morrell, he unknowingly built a foundation in storytelling while also studying nonfiction books on terrorism, insurgencies, and military leadership. Carr explains that his combat experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan allow him to write fiction that feels emotionally authentic because the emotions and reactions in his stories are drawn from real-life experiences.

Amanda describes reading Carr’s novel Cry Havoc as an intense and emotional experience, saying she frequently had to stop reading and walk around because of the suspense. Carr reveals that much of the novel was inspired by interviews with MACV-SOG veterans from the Vietnam War. He explains the extensive historical research required to accurately portray 1968-era weapons, gear, and mindsets without accidentally introducing modern perspectives or technology. To immerse himself in the era, he surrounded himself with authentic Vietnam-era equipment, including watches, knives, and firearms while writing.

The discussion then shifts to Carr’s larger fictional universe and the multigenerational storylines woven throughout his books. Fans had asked whether he planned to continue exploring earlier generations of his characters, possibly even further back in history. Carr says he enjoys building family legacies into his stories, inspired in part by author Stephen Hunter and his Swagger series. While he does not currently plan to go as far back as ancient history, he hints that additional historical stories are possible.

Carr also discusses his writing pace, explaining that he aims to publish at least one book per year and recently added nonfiction to his portfolio. He mentions his nonfiction work Targeted Beirut, focused on the 1983 Beirut barracks bombing, which earned recognition on the Marine Corps Commandant’s reading list.

Amanda asks whether Carr’s publishers ever challenge the detailed firearm and tactical realism in his books. Carr says he has been fortunate to maintain complete creative control and that his editors and agent encourage him to continue emphasizing authenticity because readers deeply value accuracy, especially gun owners and military enthusiasts who immediately notice mistakes in other novels.

Finally, Carr introduces his upcoming novel The Fourth Option, releasing in May. Unlike his previous books, this novel launches an entirely new series with new characters and a new universe. He describes it as a modern interpretation of the classic western-style “stranger comes to town” story inspired by the television series Have Gun – Will Travel. Carr explains that he begins every novel by outlining the ending and overall direction before allowing the story to evolve naturally as he writes.

In this continuation of Eye on the Target Radio, host Amanda Suffecool continues her conversation with bestselling author Jack Carr before transitioning into an in-depth interview with firearms trainer and entrepreneur Kevin Dixie of “No Other Choice” firearms training.

Carr discusses his creative process in greater detail, explaining that before committing to a book, he writes what amounts to a back-cover summary for himself. He then evaluates whether the idea is compelling enough to devote a year or more of his life to writing. If it passes that test, he develops an outline while always keeping the ending in mind. Carr says the villains are often the most interesting part of the process because each new book requires entirely new antagonists after the previous ones have been eliminated by protagonist James Reece.

Amanda and Carr also discuss the importance of authenticity and reader engagement. Carr shares stories about secretly signing copies of his books in airport bookstores and posting clues for fans on social media. He says one of the most meaningful aspects of his career is hearing from readers who connect deeply with his work or rediscover reading because of his novels. Carr emphasizes that readers are trusting him with their limited time, which motivates him to approach every page with care and purpose.

The conversation turns philosophical as Carr explains how fiction helps build empathy by allowing readers to experience the world through someone else’s perspective. He argues that reading books develops emotional understanding in ways social media cannot, especially among younger generations who are reading less frequently. Carr says he actively promotes reading in general, not just his own books, because of its lasting impact on critical thinking and empathy.

Carr also previews upcoming projects, including his new novel The Fourth Option, releasing May 12, and the second season of The Terminal List television series starring Chris Pratt. He notes that audiobooks have become one of the fastest-growing parts of publishing, with narrator Ray Porter earning praise from fans for bringing the stories to life.

The second half of the program shifts to an interview with Kevin Dixie, founder of No Other Choice firearms training. Dixie explains that the name “No Other Choice” reflects his philosophy that force should only be used as an absolute last resort. Drawing on experiences from both law enforcement and growing up in inner-city St. Louis during the crack epidemic era, he emphasizes that self-defense training should teach not only how to use force, but when to avoid it. His message centers on responsibility, restraint, and extending grace whenever possible.

Dixie also shares his personal journey, including overcoming difficult circumstances and surviving suicide attempts as a teenager. He explains that the phrase “No Other Choice” became a broader life philosophy about perseverance, self-improvement, and refusing to become a victim of circumstance. Amanda praises his ability to blend professionalism, tactical skill, and personal authenticity in a way that makes him stand out within the firearms industry.

The discussion expands into the importance of individuality and breaking stereotypes within gun culture. Dixie encourages people to be themselves rather than feeling pressured to fit a specific “tactical” image. Amanda notes that his polished appearance and approachable personality make him memorable in a crowded industry while still being backed by genuine expertise.

The interview concludes with a detailed explanation of Dixie’s “Train and Learn” event, a three-day professional development conference for people involved in the firearms and freedom communities. The event combines business education, firearms training, networking, and personal development. Participants attend workshops on marketing, sponsorships, social media strategy, and business operations, then participate in live-fire training, medical classes, hand-to-hand defense, and even night vision experiences. Dixie explains that the event was created to help people in the industry build sustainable careers and meaningful relationships while improving their skills.

Amanda strongly endorses the value of the networking opportunities and encourages listeners to attend, emphasizing that the connections formed there can become invaluable professional resources.