John Richardson, a retiree and former financial planner, is introduced.
He has experience as a basic handgun instructor and was involved with the Ply Society podcast.
Richardson has maintained his blog, “No Lawyers, Only Guns and Money,” since 2010.
He shares his recent rediscovery of hunting, including trips to Africa.
Hunting and Conservation
Discussion about hunting in Africa and the economic benefits it brings to local communities.
The importance of hunters in supporting wildlife conservation and economies is highlighted.
Examples of elk reintroduction in states like Kentucky and their economic impact are mentioned.
The difference in game ownership between the U.S. and South Africa is noted.
NRA Board Candidacy
John Richardson is a candidate for the NRA board of directors, both by nomination and by petition.
He expresses surprise at being nominated due to his past criticism of the NRA.
The importance of being on the ballot by petition to represent the rank and file members is stressed.
Update on the NRA
An overview of the recent court decisions and their impact on the NRA is presented.
The final order of the case resulted in the implementation of electronic signatures for petitions.
A secure gateway for board communication, removal of previous audit committee members, and a reformed nomination process have been mandated.
Wayne Laierre has paid back the 4.3 million plus interest, which is in escrow pending appeal.
A governance expert will be brought in, independent of previous NRA experts.
The NRA got some wins and the state of New York got some wins, it was not a clean sweep for either side
Transparency Issues
The need for greater transparency for NRA members is discussed.
Suggestions include having bylaws, board meeting minutes, and financial documents online, and live streaming board meetings.
Post-Trial NRA Board
The special litigation committee was dissolved, with some duties transferred to the legal affairs committee.
There is an attempt to recover legal fees paid on behalf of Wayne Laierre.
The January board meeting was described as more collegial, with a realistic budget.
The NRA has lost approximately 2 million members and paid over $200 million to the Brewer Law Firm
The board meeting lasted over 15 hours, which is seen as a positive sign.
Importance of a Strong NRA
The importance of the NRA in firearm training and education is emphasized.
The NRA’s role in hunter education and concealed carry courses is highlighted.
The need for the NRA to be a leader in education and political advocacy is discussed.
The importance of training new gun owners and turning them into advocates for the Second Amendment is stated.
The NRA still carries a lot of weight with politicians and needs to use that influence again.
Cooperation with Other Organizations
The need for the NRA to cooperate with other Second Amendment organizations is highlighted.
An example is given about a permitless carry bill in North Carolina being killed because the NRA objected to a provision.
The NRA needs to stop killing bills that were not introduced by them.
Reform Candidates
Overview of the 28 candidates for the NRA board, including those nominated by the committee, by petition, and as write-ins.
There are 14 candidates nominated by the board, 12 by petition and 2 write in candidates due to hurricane related issues
The reform candidates are focused on integrity, accountability, and transparency.
The “Elect a New NRA” or NRA 2.0 slate of candidates are introduced.
The importance of voting for all 28 reformers to prevent the re-election of those responsible for past problems is stressed.
Examples of board members who have opposed important proposals are given.
The people who are eligible to vote are those who have been members for 5 years or life members.
The ballots will be in the February NRA magazine, with a deadline of March 7th for new life members to be eligible to vote.
NRA Annual Meeting
The NRA annual meeting in Atlanta on April 25-27 is discussed.
The meeting of the members on April 26 is highlighted as an important event.
Members are encouraged to attend the board meeting on Monday, which is open to the public.
The NRA meeting is a good opportunity for members to see the progress and shape of NRA 2.0
The annual meeting is compared to the Shot Show, where you can also buy things.
Call to Action
Listeners are encouraged to visit the “Elect a New NRA” website and vote for the reform candidates.
Personal Reflection
John Richardson shares a personal experience about his first wife’s death from breast cancer and how he should have forced her to go to the doctor sooner.
The host shares his family’s experiences with breast cancer and encourages regular checkups.
Conclusion
John Richardson’s blog and social media details are shared.
The host thanks John for his time and wishes him luck in the election.
Listeners are encouraged to make an informed vote in the election.
The podcast’s sponsors are mentioned, and a legal disclaimer is made.
