Voices from the Middle

Dawn Allen and Debbie Burkart
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

We live in what is referred to as the Midwest, the Bible Belt, or Flyover Country. Many in this country see us as unimportant to the nature of our political society. After listening to political pundits espouse on what those of us in this part of the country believe and how we will react to any given circumstances, it was time to correct this misrepresentation of middle America. This podcast is devoted to the hardworking people of the middle of this beautiful nation. The guests of this podcast will be women who are from the middle of this nation from all walks of life, generations, lifestyles, etc. Tune in & join your hosts, Dawn Allen & Debbie Burkart

Episodes

  1. JUL 30 · VIDEO

    Rights, Risks, and Responsibilities

    In this compelling episode of Rights, Risks, and Responsibility, hosts Dawn Allen and Debbie Burkart are joined by Tabetha Davis for a deep exploration of the complex relationship between mental health and gun violence. The conversation examines the ALICE training program—an active shooter response strategy—and the psychological effects of living in a society where the presence of weapons is increasingly normalized. Together, they confront the rising tide of mass shootings, the toll it takes on mental well-being, and the critical role of community in prevention. The episode also addresses the erosion of interpersonal connections in the digital age, the difficulties of parenting in a hyperconnected world, and the growing social challenges faced by today’s youth. With urgency and compassion, the hosts underscore the need for proactive mental health support, stronger community ties, and systemic approaches to build resilience and prevent violence before it occurs.

    32 min

  2. SEASON 1 TRAILER · VIDEO

    Triggers & Treatments: Confronting Gun Violence in America

    In this sobering yet solution-driven episode, we delve into the intricate—and often overlooked—connection between gun violence and mental health in the United States. Our conversation explores how untreated psychological conditions can contribute to acts of violence, while also breaking down misconceptions that stigmatize those living with mental illness. We highlight the essential role of education, early intervention, and crisis training in schools and communities as proactive tools to help prevent mass shootings. 🧠 From systemic barriers that obstruct mental health care access to the political and social hurdles facing effective gun control legislation, we examine the challenges head-on. Through expert interviews, survivor accounts, and practical strategies, we illuminate a path forward—where compassionate mental health support and smart gun policies work together to save lives. If you’re passionate about public safety, mental wellness, or the power of informed advocacy, this episode offers a compelling call to action.

    2 min

  3. JUL 4 · VIDEO

    June's Voices From the Middle Focuses on Solutions to Government Issues

    Podcast Episode Synopsis In this powerful and timely episode, hosts Dawn Allen and Debbie Burkhart take a deep dive into the systemic challenges eroding trust in American democracy. With passion and clarity, they expose how the current political and economic systems prioritize profit over people, leaving communities fragmented and public institutions weakened. The conversation explores a wide range of critical issues—from the predatory nature of modern governance and the cultural breakdown of community, to the urgent need for government reform, voting rights protections, and electoral college overhaul. Dawn and Debbie highlight how outdated voting systems disenfranchise large portions of the population, while lawmakers escape accountability and perpetuate inequality through self-serving policies. Key topics include universal healthcare, tax reform to address wealth inequality, and the decline in public education quality due to the rise of voucher systems. The hosts make a compelling case for term limits, a revitalized ethics infrastructure in government, and most importantly, renewed civic engagement to rebuild a just, equitable society. Whether you're frustrated with politics or searching for real solutions, this episode offers a sobering yet hopeful call to action: reclaim community power and demand systemic change.

    39 min

  4. APR 30 · VIDEO

    Voices from the Middle: Education at Risk

    In this episode, we delve into the pressing challenges facing the education system today. Join us as we explore insights from seasoned educators like Deborah Cannon, who brings over 35 years of experience in high school and college mathematics and physics. We discuss the importance of diverse perspectives, data-informed decisions, and the real-life application of learning. Tune in to understand how these elements can transform education and address systemic issues. #education #issues #concerns

    39 min

  5. MAR 4 · VIDEO

    Voices from the Middle: Vaccines - Fact or Fiction

    Description: Join hosts Dawn Allen and Debbie Burkhart as they welcome Kathy Bennett, a seasoned expert in biological sciences, to discuss the history and importance of vaccines. From the eradication of smallpox to the ongoing battle against measles, this episode delves into the facts and myths surrounding vaccinations. Discover why vaccines are crucial for public health and how they contribute to global health security. Guest: Kathy Bennett - With over 25 years of experience in biological sciences, Kathy shares her insights on the ecological aspects of viral diseases and the significance of vaccinations. Hashtags: #Vaccines #PublicHealth #ScienceMatters

    56 min

  6. MAR 4 · VIDEO

    Voices From the Middle: Vaccines - Fact Or Fiction Trailer

    Vaccines have gotten a bad rap of late, but how important are they and why?

    56 min

  7. FEB 11 · VIDEO

    Voices from the Middle

    Voices from the Middle

    18 min

  8. SEASON 1 TRAILER · VIDEO

    "Introduction to Voices from the Middle" Podcast

    Voices from the Middle is a podcast by and for women in the center of the country. Unlike the Beltway stereotype of us, we are from every walk of life, every faith or not system, our beliefs are as centered as our states. Let's tell the world who "we" really are.

    18 min

Trailers

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

We live in what is referred to as the Midwest, the Bible Belt, or Flyover Country. Many in this country see us as unimportant to the nature of our political society. After listening to political pundits espouse on what those of us in this part of the country believe and how we will react to any given circumstances, it was time to correct this misrepresentation of middle America. This podcast is devoted to the hardworking people of the middle of this beautiful nation. The guests of this podcast will be women who are from the middle of this nation from all walks of life, generations, lifestyles, etc. Tune in & join your hosts, Dawn Allen & Debbie Burkart

Information

  • Creator
    Dawn Allen and Debbie Burkart
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Voices from the Middle