Stop the Killing

Evergreen Podcasts & Sarah Ferris Media
Stop the Killing
STOP THE KILLING PODCAST

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Exploring the Darkest Corners of Violence Prevention and Survival: Join Katherine Schweit, former head of the FBI's Active Shooter Program, and award-winning true-crime producer Sarah Ferris in Stop the Killing, the true-crime podcast that doesn’t just document tragedy but empowers listeners with the tools to prevent it. This series masterfully blends deep dives into infamous mass shootings, high-stakes FBI cases, and real-world survivor stories with expert analysis and practical safety strategies. Schweit—who led the first government study on mass shootings after Sandy Hook—delivers powerful insights, while Ferris transforms each episode into a gripping, unforgettable journey. Together, they equip listeners to recognize warning signs, understand preventative strategies, and become "upstanders" in the face of violence. In Season 5, meet heroes, advocates, and experts whose stories demand action—from Parkland parents who turned grief into advocacy, to Chris Hansen of To Catch a Predator - each story a call to action in America's ongoing fight against gun violence.  Stop the Killing isn’t just a podcast; it’s an indispensable guide to saving lives.

  1. S4B17 SNAKES ON FLOORS!

    1 DAY AGO • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    S4B17 SNAKES ON FLOORS!

    Snakes on Floors! In this exclusive bonus episode for our Patreon and Apple subscribers, Katherine and Sarah take a lighter look at a very real issue, inspired by a Patreon question from Helen. What started as a conversation about school lockdown procedures quickly turned into a discussion on how to explain safety drills to kids in a way that isn’t too scary—but sometimes goes hilariously wrong! Helen’s question centers around how her 8-year-old son’s school practiced a lockdown drill by imagining an escaped zoo animal—specifically, a long snake—had entered the school. This imaginative attempt to make the situation less frightening ended up puzzling the students, especially her son, who logically asked: “Wouldn’t we be safer standing on the desks instead of hiding under them?” Katherine and Sarah explore the challenges of teaching young children about safety in an age-appropriate manner, while making sure the seriousness of the situation isn’t lost in translation. They discuss the importance of running drills to build a calm and automatic response in emergencies, whether the threat is a fire, a knife, or even a long snake. Along the way, they have fun imagining more suitable zoo animals for future drills and ask listeners to weigh in with their own creative suggestions. Key Takeaways: The balance between making safety drills child-friendly but also serious. How schools and parents can work together to prepare children for emergencies. The importance of age-appropriate emergency training and why it’s essential to keep kids calm during these drills. Relevant Resources and Links: Support us on Patreon for exclusive content and early access to episodes. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. More insights from Katherine Schweit: Katherine Schweit. Website: Sarah Ferris Media Email: conningthecon@yahoo.com Share: If you found this episode insightful, share it with someone who might benefit from it and join the conversation on social media. SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS, SUPPORTS THE PODCAST CRIMECON UK TICKETS HERE CRIMECON US TICKETS HERE DON’T forget to use DISCOUNT CODE “FERRIS” Share: If you found this episode insightful, share it with someone who might benefit from it and join the conversation on social media. SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS, SUPPORTS THE PODCAST CRIMECON UK TICKETS HERE CRIMECON US TICKETS HERE DON’T forget to use DISCOUNT CODE “FERRIS” RESOURCES Stop the Bleed training FBI RUN, HIDE, FIGHT This is a Sarah Ferris Media on the Killer Podcasts Network Check out more Sarah Ferris Media productions: CONNING THE CON KLOOGHLESS - THE LONG CON GUILTY GREENIE THE BRAVERY ACADEMY WATCHING TWO DETECTIVES

    17 min
  2. 1 DAY AGO • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    S5E2 HOMETOWN HERO

    Hometown Hero: Stopping a School Shooter in His Kids' School In this gripping episode, we sit down with Tom Smith, retired NYPD detective and co-host of The Gold Shields Podcast. Tom shares a harrowing personal account of when his professional and personal worlds collided—when he had just days to stop a school shooting at his own children’s school. Tom reveals the chilling details of the threat, the investigation, and the ultimate prevention of what could have been a devastating tragedy. Summary of Key Topics Covered: Tom Smith's career in the NYPD and his transition to The Gold Shields Podcast. The unexpected threat at his children's high school and the brave actions of a young student that alerted authorities. How Tom's training and instincts kicked in as he worked to prevent a school shooting with only days to spare. The emotional toll of balancing being a detective and a father during such a critical time. Lessons learned from the case, the importance of vigilance, and how social media played a pivotal role in stopping the attack. Guest Introduction: Tom Smith: A retired NYPD detective with 30 years of experience, Tom worked on high-stakes cases, including post-9/11 terrorism investigations. He now co-hosts The Gold Shields Podcast, where he shares untold stories of law enforcement and military heroes. Learn more about Tom and his podcast. Episode Highlights with Timestamps: [00:01] Introduction to Tom Smith and his background in law enforcement. [10:00] The discovery of a school shooting threat targeting Tom's children’s school. [12:00] How a brave student’s actions helped prevent the attack. [15:30] Tom’s investigation into the shooter and the clues that led to his arrest. [20:00] The emotional toll of investigating a case that hit so close to home. [28:00] How Tom and the local authorities worked together to avert the school shooting just days before it was planned. [35:00] The lasting impact on the school and community, and Tom’s reflections on the importance of being vigilant. Relevant Resources and Links: Support us on Patreon for exclusive content and early access to episodes. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. More insights from Katherine Schweit: Katherine Schweit. The Gold Shields Podcast with Tom Smith. Website: Sarah Ferris Media Email: conningthecon@yahoo.com Share: If you found this episode insightful, share it with someone who might benefit from it and join the conversation on social media. SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS, SUPPORTS THE PODCAST CRIMECON UK TICKETS HERE CRIMECON US TICKETS HERE DON’T forget to use DISCOUNT CODE “FERRIS” RESOURCES Stop the Bleed training FBI RUN, HIDE, FIGHT This is a Sarah Ferris Media production on the Killer Podcasts Network. Check out more Sarah Ferris Media productions: CONNING THE CON KLOOGHLESS - THE LONG CON GUILTY GREENIE THE BRAVERY ACADEMY WATCHING TWO DETECTIVES

    46 min
  3. 1 DAY AGO

    S5E1 THE LEGACY OF JOAQUIN OLIVER

    Title: The Legacy of Joaquin Oliver: Live from the Aspen Ideas Festival Season 5 Episode 1 Introduction: In this compelling episode of the Stop the Killing podcast, host Katherine Schweit is joined by Manuel and Patricia Oliver, the courageous parents of Joaquin Oliver, who tragically lost his life in the 2018 Parkland shooting. Recorded live at the Aspen Ideas Festival, this episode takes listeners through the Oliver family's journey of transforming their unimaginable grief into impactful activism. Summary: The episode offers an intimate look into how Manuel and Patricia have dedicated their lives to preserving their son Joaquin's legacy through the organization they founded, Change the Ref. The discussion highlights Joaquin's deep concern for social justice issues, even at a young age, and how his parents have continued his fight against gun violence through various creative outlets, including a one-man play titled "Guac: My Son, My Hero," art, and public speaking. Listeners will gain insight into the emotional and psychological toll of their journey and how the Olivers have inspired others to take action. The episode also touches on the importance of community, the challenges of addressing gun violence, and the need for continued dialogue and activism. Guest Introduction: Manuel and Patricia Oliver: Co-founders of Change the Ref, an organization aimed at voting out politicians who accept NRA money and voting in those with gun safety agendas. They are dedicated activists who have met with President Biden and participated in numerous events and panels worldwide to advocate for gun violence prevention. Their son, Joaquin, who was affectionately known as "Guac," is the inspiration behind their relentless fight for change. Episode Highlights: [00:01:11] - Introduction to Manuel and Patricia Oliver and their mission. [00:03:00] - Patricia shares personal stories about Joaquin’s childhood and his growth from a shy child into a passionate advocate for social justice. [00:07:49] - Manuel discusses the creation of their play "Guac: My Son, My Hero" and its impact on audiences. [00:18:03] - The Olivers emphasize the importance of staying united as a family while dealing with the trauma of losing a loved one. [00:27:08] - Explanation of Change the Ref's mission and how the organization’s name was inspired by a conversation with Joaquin. [00:35:42] - Manuel encourages listeners to get involved in gun violence prevention in any capacity they can. Relevant Resources and Links: Learn more about Change the Ref and how you can get involved: changetheref.org Support the podcast on Patreon or via Apple Subscriptions. Related podcast episodes: Watching Two Detectives Conning the Con Klooghless The Bravery Academy Guilty Greenie Call to Action: If you found this episode impactful, consider subscribing to the Stop the Killing podcast on Apple Podcasts or supporting us on Patreon to help continue these crucial conversations. Your support allows us to keep producing this independent podcast and contribute to making a real-world difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    55 min
  4. ON THE EDGE: ELECTION DRAMA AND DOMESTIC TERROR

    3 DAYS AGO • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    ON THE EDGE: ELECTION DRAMA AND DOMESTIC TERROR

    On the Edge: Election Drama and Domestic Terror Exclusive Episode for Subscribers on Apple and Patreon In this exclusive episode, Stop the Killing takes a closer look at the connection between political climate and domestic terror threats. With elections approaching, tensions are high, affecting communities across the U.S. We examine a recent arrest in Maricopa County, Arizona, where law enforcement thwarted potential violence linked to ideological grievances. This case sheds light on the challenging work of police and intelligence teams dedicated to preventing harm in the midst of political unrest. Topics Explored: Election Atmosphere: How the heightened political climate can lead to increased community tension. Case Study - Arizona Arrest: The details of a recent arrest involving a Maricopa County man facing charges of domestic terrorism and unlawful firearm use, following incidents at a local political office. Understanding Threat Escalation: Insight into how unresolved grievances can escalate into dangerous actions, as well as the strategic response by law enforcement to defuse these threats. Preventing Harm Through Vigilance: Highlighting the dedicated investigative work that helped intercept a potential incident, illustrating how coordinated efforts can make a difference. Join us for an in-depth look at the intersection of political discourse and public safety as we discuss steps to reduce the impact of ideological violence on communities. Relevant Resources and Links: Support us on Patreon for exclusive content and early access to episodes. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. More insights from Katherine Schweit: Katherine Schweit. The Gold Shields Podcast with Tom Smith. Website: Sarah Ferris Media Email: conningthecon@yahoo.com Share: If you found this episode insightful, share it with someone who might benefit from it and join the conversation on social media. SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS, SUPPORTS THE PODCAST CRIMECON UK TICKETS HERE CRIMECON US TICKETS HERE DON’T forget to use DISCOUNT CODE “FERRIS” RESOURCES Stop the Bleed training FBI RUN, HIDE, FIGHT This is a Sarah Ferris Media production on the Killer Podcasts Network. Check out more Sarah Ferris Media productions: CONNING THE CON KLOOGHLESS - THE LONG CON GUILTY GREENIE THE BRAVERY ACADEMY WATCHING TWO DETECTIVES

    18 min
  5. 31 OCT • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    S4B52 STK INTRODUCES WATCHING TWO DETECTIVES | SEASON 2

    WATCHING TWO DETECTIVES : SEASON 2 EPISODE 1 The Last Fare – The Tragic Murder of Youbert Hormozi Introduction: Here at Stop the Killing, we wanted to take a moment to share a project that is especially close to Sarah’s heart: Season 2 of Watching Two Detectives. This season, titled The Last Fare, dives into the tragic murder of Youbert Hormozi, a devoted father and hardworking taxi driver from Southwest Sydney. In this deeply personal project, Sarah brings together the detectives who solved the case and the family left behind, creating a space for their stories to be heard with respect and compassion. Relevant Resources and Links Mentioned: FBI Retired Case File Review Podcast Subscribe on Patreon Early Access on Apple Podcasts Call to Action: Don't miss out on our next episodes—subscribe to "Stop the Killing" on your favorite podcast platform. Support our work by joining us on Patreon or through Apple Subscriptions. Your support helps us continue bringing important discussions on public safety and law enforcement. WANT THE VIDEOS HEAD TO YOUTUBE @sarahferrismedia And if you are wanting AD FREE | EARLY ACCESS | BONUS CONTENT HIT THE BANNER ON APPLE PODCASTS TO SUBSCRIBE OR SUPPORT US: Patreon.com/stopthekilling SOCIAL CHAMP LINK Send us your Listener Questions for our Tuesday episodes Message us on instagram : @conmunitypodcast @stopthekillingstories And for all things Katherine Schweit including where you can purchase her book STOP THE KILLING: How to end the mass shooting crisis head to: www.katherineschweit.com SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS, SUPPORTS THE PODCAST CRIMECON UK TICKETS HERE CRIMECON US TICKETS HERE DON’T forget to use DISCOUNT CODE “FERRIS” RESOURCES Stop the Bleed training FBI RUN, HIDE, FIGHT This is a Sarah Ferris Media on the Killer Podcasts Network Check out more Sarah Ferris Media productions: CONNING THE CON KLOOGHLESS - THE LONG CON GUILTY GREENIE THE BRAVERY ACADEMY WATCHING TWO DETECTIVES

    36 min
  6. 23 OCT

    S4B51 GET READY FOR SEASON 5

    Get Ready for Season 5: Expert Insights and Inspiring Stories on Gun Violence Introduction: Welcome back to Stop the Killing with your hosts, Katherine Schweit and Sarah Ferris. Season 5 is on the horizon, and we’re bringing you an impactful lineup of episodes focused on ending gun violence. In this pre-launch episode, we give you a sneak peek of what’s to come, featuring real stories from survivors, cutting-edge research, and powerful interviews with experts and advocates. If you're ready to dive deep into the complexities of gun violence prevention, this season is for you. Episode Summary: As we prepare to launch Season 5 on November 7th, Katherine and Sarah discuss the themes of the new season, which includes a mix of expert analysis and personal stories of survival and resilience. In this episode, you'll hear about upcoming interviews with academics, gun violence prevention researchers, and advocates, as well as emotional firsthand accounts from those affected by tragedies. The hosts also highlight their interview with Chris Hansen, known for To Catch a Predator, who shares his advocacy work for protecting communities from gun violence. Key Topics Covered: [00:25] Introduction to Season 5 and its theme of preventing gun violence through research and personal stories. [02:00] Highlights of upcoming academic research and practical strategies to reduce gun violence. [04:00] A sneak peek of the interview with the parents of Parkland High School shooting victim Joaquin Oliver. [04:30] Chris Hansen’s advocacy journey and how it aligns with the mission of Stop the Killing. [06:00] Preview of an inspiring story from retired NYPD Detective Tom Smith and how his work crossed paths with a school shooting threat. Guest Introduction: This episode gives listeners a taste of the incredible guests lined up for Season 5. From academics conducting groundbreaking research to public figures like Chris Hansen and everyday heroes, each guest brings unique insights into the ongoing fight against gun violence. The episode touches on the emotional and practical aspects of preventing gun-related tragedies. Episode Highlights: [00:25] "We’re excited to bring you new voices this season—researchers, advocates, and personal stories from those affected by gun violence." [02:00] "This season includes practical tips for keeping your community safe from gun violence, straight from the experts." [04:00] "Episode 1 will feature the inspiring legacy of Joaquin Oliver, a Parkland High School shooting victim, and his parents' efforts to advocate for change." [04:30] "Chris Hansen’s commitment to advocacy against violence is a powerful reminder that everyone can play a role in preventing tragedy." [06:00] "Retired Detective Tom Smith’s story is a reminder that gun violence can touch any community, and being prepared makes all the difference." Relevant Resources and Links: Support us on Patreon for exclusive content and early access to episodes. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. More insights from Katherine Schweit. Stop the Bleed Training. FBI’s RUN, HIDE, FIGHT Program. Use the code “FERRIS” for discounts at CrimeCon UK and CrimeCon US. Calls to Action: If you’re as excited as we are for Season 5, make sure to support the podcast by subscribing on Apple Podcasts or joining us on Patreon for exclusive content. Your support allows us to continue bringing important conversations about gun violence prevention to the forefront. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    25 min
  7. 23 OCT • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    S4B51 GET READY FOR SEASON 5

    Get Ready for Season 5: Expert Insights and Inspiring Stories on Gun Violence Introduction: Welcome back to Stop the Killing with your hosts, Katherine Schweit and Sarah Ferris. Season 5 is on the horizon, and we’re bringing you an impactful lineup of episodes focused on ending gun violence. In this pre-launch episode, we give you a sneak peek of what’s to come, featuring real stories from survivors, cutting-edge research, and powerful interviews with experts and advocates. If you're ready to dive deep into the complexities of gun violence prevention, this season is for you. Episode Summary: As we prepare to launch Season 5 on November 7th, Katherine and Sarah discuss the themes of the new season, which includes a mix of expert analysis and personal stories of survival and resilience. In this episode, you'll hear about upcoming interviews with academics, gun violence prevention researchers, and advocates, as well as emotional firsthand accounts from those affected by tragedies. The hosts also highlight their interview with Chris Hansen, known for To Catch a Predator, who shares his advocacy work for protecting communities from gun violence. Key Topics Covered: [00:25] Introduction to Season 5 and its theme of preventing gun violence through research and personal stories. [02:00] Highlights of upcoming academic research and practical strategies to reduce gun violence. [04:00] A sneak peek of the interview with the parents of Parkland High School shooting victim Joaquin Oliver. [04:30] Chris Hansen’s advocacy journey and how it aligns with the mission of Stop the Killing. [06:00] Preview of an inspiring story from retired NYPD Detective Tom Smith and how his work crossed paths with a school shooting threat. Guest Introduction: This episode gives listeners a taste of the incredible guests lined up for Season 5. From academics conducting groundbreaking research to public figures like Chris Hansen and everyday heroes, each guest brings unique insights into the ongoing fight against gun violence. The episode touches on the emotional and practical aspects of preventing gun-related tragedies. Episode Highlights: [00:25] "We’re excited to bring you new voices this season—researchers, advocates, and personal stories from those affected by gun violence." [02:00] "This season includes practical tips for keeping your community safe from gun violence, straight from the experts." [04:00] "Episode 1 will feature the inspiring legacy of Joaquin Oliver, a Parkland High School shooting victim, and his parents' efforts to advocate for change." [04:30] "Chris Hansen’s commitment to advocacy against violence is a powerful reminder that everyone can play a role in preventing tragedy." [06:00] "Retired Detective Tom Smith’s story is a reminder that gun violence can touch any community, and being prepared makes all the difference." Relevant Resources and Links: Support us on Patreon for exclusive content and early access to episodes. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. More insights from Katherine Schweit. Stop the Bleed Training. FBI’s RUN, HIDE, FIGHT Program. Use the code “FERRIS” for discounts at CrimeCon UK and CrimeCon US. Calls to Action: If you’re as excited as we are for Season 5, make sure to support the podcast by subscribing on Apple Podcasts or joining us on Patreon for exclusive content. Your support allows us to continue bringing important conversations about gun violence prevention to the forefront.

    20 min

Trailers

Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Exploring the Darkest Corners of Violence Prevention and Survival: Join Katherine Schweit, former head of the FBI's Active Shooter Program, and award-winning true-crime producer Sarah Ferris in Stop the Killing, the true-crime podcast that doesn’t just document tragedy but empowers listeners with the tools to prevent it. This series masterfully blends deep dives into infamous mass shootings, high-stakes FBI cases, and real-world survivor stories with expert analysis and practical safety strategies. Schweit—who led the first government study on mass shootings after Sandy Hook—delivers powerful insights, while Ferris transforms each episode into a gripping, unforgettable journey. Together, they equip listeners to recognize warning signs, understand preventative strategies, and become "upstanders" in the face of violence. In Season 5, meet heroes, advocates, and experts whose stories demand action—from Parkland parents who turned grief into advocacy, to Chris Hansen of To Catch a Predator - each story a call to action in America's ongoing fight against gun violence.  Stop the Killing isn’t just a podcast; it’s an indispensable guide to saving lives.

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