TFB Behind the Gun #200: Recovering from Blackout w/ Emmanuel B
From time to time, I like to give you all a peek behind the soft goods portion of the firearms industry, and for that purpose, I’ve brought back Emmanuel B., the owner and operator of American Steppe. Inspired by his youth days of running around with oversized gear with his dad, Emmanuel is making sure that his kids, and by extension, more kids in the United States, have access to quality, American-made gear that is not only functional like adult-sized bags, but also fits their smaller frames more appropriately. Today Emmanuel and I talk about everything from soft goods to soft people, so buckle up for a great high-energy episode from one of my favorite return guests.
More TFB Behind the Gun Podcast Episodes:
TFB Behind the Gun #200: Recovering from Blackout w/ Emmanuel B
For TFB Behind the Gun #200, Emmanuel and I dive deep into what it means to “recover from blackout” — but in the sense that being so busy, sometimes you just don’t have time to keep up with the industry you work in.
We talk about the philosophy behind American Steppe: why Emmanuel insists on U.S. manufacturing, how he designs gear that’s both kid‑friendly and mission‑capable, and the importance of teaching kids real skills with real gear instead of just handing them toys.
From soft goods to some light politics, this is a high‑energy, wide‑ranging conversation about gear, parenting, preparedness, and what it really means to build resilience from the ground up. If you’ve ever wondered how to equip the next generation without compromising on quality or capability, this is the episode to listen to for Emmanuel’s unique personality and his great backpacks and gear, which you should 100% check out at the links below.
American Steppe Website
American Steppe on Instagram
American Steppe on YouTube
Listen right here at TFB:
Listen to Behind The Gun on TFB – https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/podcast/
Listen on Apple Podcasts:
Listen on Spotify:
Silencer Shop – www.silencershop.com
If you’ve said that buying a silencer is too expensive, too long of a wait, or that the paperwork is too confusing, you’re not alone. Buying a silencer is a big deal, and we don’t take it lightly either! But it’s the easiest it’s ever been!
Kimber – www.R7Mako.com
Kimber’s award-winning R7 Mako: the polymer-frame, striker-fired micro-compact with 14 rounds total capacity, and a trigger you have to experience to believe. Feed your appetite for something different at www.R7Mako.com.
VNSH Holsters – www.vnsh.com/behindthegun
The VNSH (pronounced Vanish) holster is quickly becoming one of the most popular holsters in America and thousands of customers say it’s the most comfortable holster ever. Because you’re a supporter of TFB’s Behind the Gun podcast you can go to www.vnsh.com/behindthegun to get a $50 discount on the vanish holster which normally retails for $130. Visit www.vnsh.com/behindthegun to claim your $50 discount today!
Reloader SCSA Competitor Certified Pilot Currently able to pass himself off as the second cousin twice removed of Joe Flanigan. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ballisticaviation/
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