BYRNA BROS PODCAST WITH JOSH SCHIRARD

Twenty-five years after 9/11, this conversation explores how airport security, counterterrorism, and personal safety have changed—and what risks still remain. Patrick Sullivan, a former Secret Service and national security executive, shares his firsthand experience being at the same Dulles Airport checkpoint that one of the 9/11 hijackers passed through just minutes earlier. He reflects on his career in presidential protection, intelligence, undercover investigations, and federal security, revealing how seemingly small vulnerabilities can create enormous consequences.The discussion covers undercover operations that exposed weaknesses in identity verification and airport screening, the pre-9/11 policy of cooperating with hijackers, and Sullivan’s experience watching the World Trade Center collapse while stranded at Dulles Airport. Sullivan also explains why insider threats may pose one of the greatest modern security risks and offers practical advice on situational awareness, personal safety, and recognizing when avoiding confrontation is the safest choice. The episode also highlights his continued work supporting Secret Service personnel and the families of agents who died in the line of duty. This is essential listening for anyone interested in national security, law enforcement, personal safety, or the lasting lessons of 9/11.

This episode features host Josh Schirard and guest Michael McCoy, who is the Director of the Center to Keep & Bear Arms for Mountain States Legal Foundation, where they discuss school safety in the wake of a recent Idaho shooting. They focus on how armed school staff and school resource officers can help deter attacks and protect students. They debate the shortcomings of gun-free school zones, the role of school boards and state legislation, and practical ways parents and districts can push for stronger security measures.

This episode dives into a major Third Circuit ruling striking down New Jersey’s long-standing assault weapons and high-capacity magazine ban, and what that decision could mean for Second Amendment law nationwide. Josh is joined by constitutional and civil rights attorney Will Trachman, who explains how recent Supreme Court cases like Heller and Bruen reshaped gun-rights litigation by shifting the burden onto the government to prove historical support for firearm restrictions. Together, they discuss how appellate court decisions can ripple beyond one state, influencing challenges to waiting-period laws, permit-to-purchase regimes, and other firearm regulations across the country. The conversation also highlights the practical stakes for Americans, the likelihood of Supreme Court review, and why activists and ordinary citizens alike are being urged to stay informed, engaged, and fearless in defending constitutional rights.

School supplies are important, but here’s what kids really need to stay safe this year — confidence, awareness, and a safety mindset. In this episode, we talk to James "Mo" Canady, executive director of the National Association of School Resource Officers.  Most lists overlook these critical tools, yet they’re what truly help kids navigate school and stay safe. Confidence and awareness aren't just buzzwords — they’re the foundations of self-reliance and security, especially in today’s digital age. It’s on us to prepare our kids for the risks they face daily, from online dangers to everyday peer pressures. Are you talking to your kids about online safety and the importance of staying alert? Worth considering. Remember, safety isn’t just about physical security — it’s about empowering our kids to trust themselves and stay vigilant. What’s one step you’re taking today to boost your child's safety mindset?#BackToSchoolSafety #ParentingTips #SchoolResources #KidsSafety #CommunityMatters

This episode is a hard-hitting conversation about school safety, parental involvement, and accountability in public education, centered on Geno Young’s experiences as a substitute teacher and his book on what he sees as deep systemic failures in Chicago schools. Josh and Geno discuss violence, low literacy, administrative cover-ups, and the lack of discipline in schools, then shift to practical advice for parents and students on staying informed, speaking up, and prioritizing safety.

This episode covers the controversy in Albemarle County schools after two elementary school staff members were arrested on child sex-crime-related charges, and it argues that the situation exposes deeper failures in school leadership and parent communication. Rob Schilling and Noah Coffin say the community is shocked, but not entirely surprised, pointing to what they describe as a long-running culture problem in the district. They criticize the superintendent and school board for not acting quickly enough, for mishandling communication with families, and for allowing policies they believe leave children vulnerable. They also discuss Turning Point USA’s role on campus, the pushback they say the chapter has faced, and how the controversy has intensified tensions in the district.

In this episode of "Byrna Bros," host Josh Schirard interviews John Kiriakou, a former CIA analyst and counterterrorism officer known for exposing the CIA's use of waterboarding. The discussion centers on situational awareness, drawing from John's experiences in the CIA and his advocacy for government accountability. John shares gripping stories from his career, emphasizing the importance of being aware of one's surroundings to ensure personal safety. He also discusses his upcoming podcast, "John Kiriakou's Briefing Room," and his current podcast, "Dead Drop," which ranks highly in the history category. @byrnanation @JohnKiriakou

Most of us assume our rights are protected — until a simple neighborhood incident snowballs into a legal nightmare. Dolly and Brendan Jones share their harrowing story of fighting for Lucy, a rescue dog wrongly labeled dangerous after a freak collar mishap. Their experience exposes the unseen dangers of overregulation and highlights how quickly ignorance and local laws can threaten your freedom, even on your own property.In this eye-opening episode, you'll discover how a deployment in the Middle East led to rescuing Lucy — a story filled with daring logistics, acts of kindness, and ultimately, a fight against unjust legal charges. Dolly and Brendan break down the true power of understanding local laws and the importance of proactive advocacy. They reveal the behind-the-scenes details of fighting animal control, navigating a legal system stacked against them, and the lessons every homeowner and pet owner must learn to protect their rights.

In this episode of "BYRNA Bros," host Josh interviews Nicole Parker, a former FBI agent and author of "The Two FBI's: The Bravery and Betrayal I Saw in My Time at the Bureau." Nicole shares her journey from a finance career to joining the FBI after witnessing the 9/11 attacks. She discusses the internal shifts within the FBI, highlighting the division between agents committed to justice and those influenced by political agendas. Nicole emphasizes the need for strong leadership and community involvement to restore trust in federal law enforcement. The conversation underscores the importance of awareness and proactive engagement in societal issues.

Alejandro Lares is the former Chief of Police of Tijuana, Mexico, known for leading major public safety reforms and coordinating cross-border security efforts. With extensive experience in law enforcement and international collaboration, he has been a key voice on policing strategies, crime reduction, and public security in high-risk urban environments.