Ep 170: Protecting Schools and Supporting Veterans

Ep 170: Protecting Schools and Supporting Veterans

Author: Walk the Talk America June 24, 2026 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 and trains veterans for school security, helps schools build a security mindset, and supports veterans as they transition out of military service and into a renewed sense of purpose. From threat assessment and school safety culture to veteran mental health, identity, brotherh...

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 153: GOALS,  Advocacy, and More with Gun Owners of America [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:10
In this WTTA Guns and Mental Health podcast episode, hosts Michael Sodini and Kevin Berry engage with John Fahrner from Gun Owners of America (GOA). They discuss personal updates, John's journey in the firearms industry,…
Ep 152: Dwayne Edwards on Changing Veteran Mental Health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:37:31
What happens after the mission ends? In this episode, we sit down with Marine Corps veteran and founder of VMHA, Dwayne Edwards, for an honest conversation about life after service, the identity crisis many veterans face…
Ep 151: I Was Almost a School Shooter Part 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:23:42
In this unfiltered conversation, Aaron Stark returns to continue a story: how he went from the brink of committing a school shooting to becoming a national voice for prevention and mental health reform. Host Jake Wiskerc…
Ep 150: I Was Almost a School Shooter Part 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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 compassi…
Ep 147: Grant Magers and the Rise of Smart Ammunition Kiosks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:13:23
Grant Magers, founder and CEO of American Rounds—an innovative company bringing ammunition vending machines (yes, really) to retailers nationwide. In this refreshingly light-hearted but deeply insightful episode, Grant b…
Ep 146: Mike and Kenny Barlow Recap NRA [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:19
Michael Sodini recaps the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits live from the Regal Products booth with Kenny Barlow. Send us Fan Mail Walk the Talk America would like to thank our partners who make these conversations possible…