In this episode…
Last year, Scarlett had a compelling conversation with TJ Stevens, author of Once a Shooter: Redemption of a High School Gunman. Stevens talks openly and honestly about how he was a high school shooter at a Virginia high school in 1982 and recounts the events of the hostage standoff where no one was injured except himself.
This very emotional discussion delves into the inner turmoil Stevens felt and how he felt a higher power lead him out of the darkness. As Stevens takes the listener step-by-step through his traumatic day-long hostage standoff, he shares his emotional and mental state and explains how he found his way toward freedom, forgiveness, and faith. After serving prison time, Stevens went on to a successful life, but this event will always be the catalyst that brought him to a deep spirituality and understanding of himself that led him to help others realize there is hope and light at the end of the darkness.
Scarlett and TJ continue their riveting conversation on this second part of their podcast. They share insightful personal stories and discuss effective ways we can help kids take responsibility for their lives through music, religion, love, hope, and essential coping skills. They agree that children can be their best selves if they choose love and it will ultimately make the world a better place.
