Ep 143: Inside the Mind of a School Shooter with Jon Romano

Ep 143: Inside the Mind of a School Shooter with Jon Romano

Author: Walk the Talk America March 20, 2025 Duration: 1:21:10
In this episode of the Guns and Mental Health podcast, host WTTA Founder Michael Sodini and Patrick Bertagna, CEO of GunAlert, engage in a profound conversation with Jon Romano, who shares his journey from a troubled youth to a pivotal moment in his life when he brought a firearm to school with the intention of suicide by cop. Jon discusses the trauma he faced, the mental health struggles that led to his actions, and the importance of open communication and connection in preventing similar tr...

At a time when discussions around firearms often turn polarized, Guns and Mental Health by Walk the Talk America offers a different kind of space. This podcast deliberately bridges two worlds that are deeply interconnected yet rarely discussed together with genuine openness. You’ll hear from mental health clinicians, researchers, and people who own and use firearms, all sitting down for conversations that prioritize understanding. Episodes tackle difficult subjects like suicide prevention within the community, the cultural dimensions of gun ownership, and actionable steps toward safety and well-being. The approach here is built on a foundation of education and nuance, steering clear of sensationalism to foster meaningful collaboration. By focusing on shared goals rather than divisions, the dialogue moves toward practical solutions and reduced stigma. Tune in for a series that handles complex topics with the care and honesty they require, proving that constructive talk is possible. Walk the Talk America hosts this essential podcast as part of their broader mission to facilitate these connections.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Guns and Mental Health by Walk the Talk America
Podcast Episodes
Ep 124: Recapping GOALS with Mike and Kenny [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:30
In this conversation, Michael Sodini, Kevin Berry, and Kenny Barlow discuss Mike and Kenny's experiences at the inaugural Goals conference held by Gun Owners of America (GOA). They talk about the importance of organizati…
Ep 123: Joe Bartozzi, President and CEO of NSSF [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:21:59
Joe Bartozzi, the president and CEO of the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), joins Mike and Jake to discuss his history working in the firearm industry, suicide prevention, and the NSSF's role and activities in…
Ep 122: Paul Santilli [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:31
Paul Santilli, a clinical social worker, discusses his paper on the utilization of gun principles and gun handling in psychotherapy. He explains how he integrated gun principles into everyday life and how they can be app…
Ep 121: Yehuda Remer AKA The Pew Pew Jew [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:50:05
Yehuda Remer, known as The Pew Pew Jew, discusses his journey as a gun rights activist and author. He talks about his book "Bullet Points: Reasons Why America Should Embrace Common Sense Gun Law" and the powerful endorse…
Ep 119: The Hidden Toll of Constant Connectivity on Kids [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:30:24
We're tackling the growing issue of excessive screen time among kids and its effects on mental health. We discuss the latest recommendations from health officials, the challenges parents face in setting boundaries, and t…