Ep 150: I Was Almost a School Shooter Part 1

Ep 150: I Was Almost a School Shooter Part 1

Author: Walk the Talk America June 9, 2025 Duration: 51:45
Jake Wiskerchen and Michael Sodini sit down with Aaron Stark, a man who once nearly became a school shooter, to explore the roots of despair, the systemic failures that allow trauma to fester, and the moments of compassion that can save a life. Aaron shares his deeply personal story of abuse, neglect, and hopelessness, and how two friends changed everything. From the dangerous effects of untreated shame to the failure of our systems to identify and intervene with at-risk youth, this con...

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: 50

Guns and Mental Health by Walk the Talk America
Podcast Episodes
Ep 173: A Therapist’s Journey Into Firearm Culture [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:52:02
What happens when a licensed therapist falls in love with shooting sports? In this episode of the Guns & Mental Health Podcast, Stanford Spurlock shares his journey from working in the music industry to becoming a mental…
Ep 171: Jared Buchanan's Journey of Healing and Advocacy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:31:03
Jared Buchanan shares his personal journey through grief, mental health advocacy, and ultra running, all inspired by his father's suicide. Discover insights on recognizing signs, the importance of connection, and how res…
Ep 170: Protecting Schools and Supporting Veterans [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:43:37
In this episode of Guns and Mental Health, Mike and Jake sit down with the Allegiance Project Foundation to discuss a different approach to school safety. The conversation explores how Allegiance Project Foundation hires…
Ep 168: From the Firearms Industry to the Research Stage [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:13
Michael Sodini recaps his experience last fall at Rutgers University, where he was invited to close out a summit hosted by the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center. In this conversation, Michael and Kevin break down w…
Ep 166: Financial Freedom for First Responders [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:22:32
In this conversation, Seth Hendricks shares his transformative journey from a decade-long career in law enforcement to becoming a financial advisor. He discusses the impact of mental health on police officers, the import…