Ep 162: When Worlds Come Together: ROOTS, Research, and Real Conversations at the National Research Conference

Ep 162: When Worlds Come Together: ROOTS, Research, and Real Conversations at the National Research Conference

Author: Walk the Talk America December 2, 2025 Duration: 51:16
In this special episode, Kevin Berry sits down with Kerri Raissian, Senior Research Scientist at the Yale School of Public Health, Kenny Barlow from Regal Products, and WTTA founder Mike Sodini to recap a week that moved the conversation forward in meaningful ways. The National Research Conference for the Prevention of Firearm-Related Harms brought together researchers, public health leaders, industry partners, clinicians, and advocates who all share a common goal. Reduce negative outcomes an...

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…