About This Episode
In today’s episode of Tactical Business, host Wade Skalsky sits down with Michael Schwartz of San Diego County Gun Owners. Michael breaks down 15 powerful moments that shaped the early days of SDCGO. From bold leadership moves to major political victories, these highlights show how a grassroots movement turned into a regional force for the Second Amendment. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to the cause, this journey will fire you up!
Insights In This Episode
- The founder modeled SDCGO after successful political groups, borrowing effective tactics while staying focused on gun rights.
- Support for self-defense and concealed carry has broadened across gender, age, and political lines over the last decade.
- SDCGO secured thousands of CCW permits for San Diego residents years before the Supreme Court’s Bruen decision.
- They prioritize local offices—school boards, city councils—because those seats are stepping stones to state and federal power.
- The “Not Me” program has helped over 1,400 women become responsible gun owners to prevent sexual assault and domestic violence.
Today’s Guest
Michael Schwartz | SDCGO
San Diego County Gun Owners (SDCGO) is a non-partisan political organization fighting to protect and restore Second Amendment rights in San Diego. Born in response to anti-gun legislation in California, SDCGO works at the local level to elect pro-2A leaders. Powered by volunteers and a full-time staff, they focus on education, outreach, activism, and fundraising to build a strong, engaged community that defends your right to keep and bear arms.
Featured on the Show
About Tactical Business
Tactical Business is the weekly business show for the firearms industry. The podcast features in-depth interviews with the entrepreneurs, professionals and technologists who are enabling the next generation of firearms businesses to innovate and grow.
Episode Summary
From Banker to 2A Advocate
1. Michael Schwartz’s Journey into 2A Advocacy
Michael Schwartz, Executive Director of San Diego County Gun Owners (SDCGO), shares his transformation from a banking career to a leading Second Amendment advocate. His passion for firearms began in his youth, but a pivotal moment in 2008—when a federal officer nearly arrested him over a misunderstood gun law—ignited his activism. This encounter made him realize the importance of political engagement to protect gun rights.
2. Founding San Diego County Gun Owners
In 2015, Schwartz left banking to establish SDCGO, focusing on:
- Local political influence: Electing pro-2A candidates to city councils, school boards, and county positions.
- Grassroots growth: Building a membership base of over 4,000 (with a goal of 40,000+) to amplify advocacy efforts.
- Full-time advocacy: Hiring dedicated staff to ensure sustained impact, unlike volunteer-driven efforts that often lose momentum.
3. Key Victories & Ongoing Initiatives
Schwartz highlights SDCGO’s successes and programs:
- CCW Expansion: Pressured San Diego’s sheriff to ease concealed-carry permits pre-Bruen, growing from 1,100 to 24,000+ permits issued.
- Community Outreach:
- Shooting Socials: Introduced 10,000+ San Diegans to firearms through beginner-friendly events.
- Women’s Self-Defense Program (“Not Me”): Helped 1,400+ women access guns, training, and permits, often covering costs for those in need.
- Legal Action: Partnered with groups like the Firearms Policy Coalition to challenge restrictive local ordinances.
4. The Power of Collaboration & Persistence
Schwartz emphasizes strategic, respectful engagement with officials—avoiding hostility to build alliances. His approach:
- Political Pressure: Mobilized donors and city councils to influence policy changes (e.g., Santee’s pro-CCW resolution).
- Cultural Shifts: Changing perceptions of gun ownership beyond hunting to self-defense and personal liberty.
5. Gun Owners Radio & Future Goals
Schwartz hosts Gun Owners Radio, a podcast/youtube show featuring:
- Interviews with lawmakers (holding them accountable on-record).
- “Stump My Nephew”: A trivia segment blending education and entertainment.
- Advocacy Updates: Breaking down lawsuits, bills, and 2A news.
Schwartz’s story proves that ordinary citizens can drive extraordinary change—with persistence, collaboration, and a clear mission.