A question from a listener prompts a different kind of conversation about guns. Reporter Erica Heilman talks with five Vermonters about how their lives have been impacted by them, and why they have them.

Content warning: This episode contains conversation about suicide, domestic and sexual violence; profanity; substance abuse and gun violence, which might be difficult for some to hear.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available. Just dial 988 to talk to someone at the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

If you’re experiencing abuse or violence against you of any kind, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is also available to you for help or conversation. You can reach them at 800-799-7233.

Access a transcript of this episode here.

This episode was reported and mixed by Erica Heilman. It was produced by Myra Flynn and Mae Nagusky, with editing and additional production from the rest of the Brave Little State team: Angela Evancie and Josh Crane.

If you want to hear more of Erica’s interviews, check out her podcast Rumble Strip. She’s also the creator of a Vermont Public series called What Class Are You? John Rodgers, one of the folks in this episode, is also featured there.

Special thanks to Susan Clark, Louis Porter, Amelia Meath, Renee Falconer, Aimee Farr, Kirk Postalwaite, Marilyn Skoglund, Ingrid Jonas, Karen Tronsgard-Scott, Conor Casey, Will Staats, Tena Starr, Kelly Green, Tobin Anderson, Wynona Ward and Russ Shopland.

As always, our journalism is better when you’re a part of it:

Brave Little State is a production of Vermont Public, and a proud member of the NPR Network.