The Hustle
Years in Tampa Bay
1
Hustle (job)
Owner and head instructor, Integrity Tactical Solutions
What do you do?
Basic firearm training (Pistol and Rifle); Concealed Weapons classes; Home Defense classes; Situational Awareness and Basic Self Defense classes
Why do you do it?
There are are far too many people who subscribe to the idea that “Black and armed” is an indicator of bad intent, and far too few people of color to counter that negative stereotype.
What was your Catalyst? (How did you get started?)
For most of my adult life I was at best indifferent to firearm ownership. I’ve been a student and teacher of the martial arts for a little over two decades and I’ve always been confident in my ability to protect myself and loved ones should the situation arise. Well, two home invasions and the fallout from a certain election prompted me to look at things differently. I needed to “up my game.” As I grew in the 2a community, I noticed a woeful lack of people who looked like me to learn from. In fact, most people of color I knew were outright against having anything to do with a firearm. Some even equated “armed and Black” with criminal intent. My desire to change that narrative became catalyst for the creation of Integrity Tactical Solutions.
What’s a common misconception or unknown aspect of what you do?
That all you need is one class and you’re all set to defend yourself and your loved ones.
What’s the most challenging part of your Hustle?
Helping others to get over their fears/misconceptions (but I love it).
What’s the most valuable piece of business advice/insight that’s helped you?
Never stop honing your craft.
