Trigger Warning: This episode contains mentions of gun violence, death, self-harm, and domestic abuse.

Since 2013, the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) Center has been recognized as the national standard for active shooter response training by the FBI.

In this episode of Enlighten Me, Hunter Martindale, Research Director for ALERRT, discusses how their practical research efforts help train first responders and civilians across the United States. Social Work professor Dr. Rael Morley also explores some of the latest research into what motivates people to commit acts of violence.

The news industry and the world of journalism has changed drastically since the creation of the newspaper. From the rise of the internet to the decline of ad sales that keep traditional newspapers in business, journalists have adapted to news ways of getting their stories to the masses. This episode brings together Dr. Gwynne Ellen Ash and Eraldo “Dino” Chiecchi whose vast work and teaching experience explores literacy assessment, critical media literacy, the journalism business, how newspapers have changed over the years, and how Texas State University is preparing the next generation of journalists.

Listen to new episodes of Enlighten Me every month on the TXST Podcast Network. Other podcasts on the network include Try @ TXST, Office Hours, The Current, and States Up.

In this episode, hosts Rodney Crouther and Jeremy Thomas take Enlighten Me out of the studio and onto the Quad for a special edition. Listen as we hand the mic to our Bobcats who share stories of joy, gratitude, and connection. From favorite professors to lessons of friendship and community, this episode focuses on what makes TXST so special — our students.