Ep. 23: Shots Fired, Strength Found: Tyler Thoman’s Line of Duty Reckoning

Welcome to Beyond the Barrel, where every episode takes you deeper into the lives of those who serve on the frontlines. Hosted by two dynamic leaders— Kenny, a nationally recognized K9 interdiction officer, and Attorney Mike, a U.S. Army veteran and seasoned Patrol Supervisor—this podcast is where stories of bravery, sacrifice, and humanity unfold. Beyond the Barrel isn’t just about what happens on duty—it’s about what happens when the uniform comes off. Kenny and Mike sit down with first responders and military personnel to dive into the real stories behind their service, exploring the personal challenges and triumphs that have shaped their lives. But they don’t stop there—they reveal the human side, the passions and interests that make these heroes just like you and me. From veteran and cop to entrepreneur, law enforcement officers possess a wide range of skills that seamlessly translate to the private sector. Yet, we often underestimate our own potential, believing we lack the qualifications to pursue new opportunities. It’s time we give ourselves the credit we deserve and confidently explore what lies beyond the barrel. Beyond the Barrel is where we pour truths—straight, no chaser. And few stories cut deeper than Tyler Thoman’s. In this raw and riveting episode, we sit down with Tyler Thoman—former Brevard County deputy and the NRA’s 2021 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Tyler recounts the moment a routine traffic stop on I-95 erupted into a life-or-death gunfight, where his actions saved the life of a fellow deputy and stopped a violent career criminal in his tracks. But the firefight was only the beginning. Now serving in Tennessee, Tyler opens up about the silent aftermath—the delayed onset of PTSD, the emotional toll, and the dark path he nearly went down. Through brutal honesty and hard-won healing, Tyler shares what brought him back, what keeps him grounded, and why he refuses to be defined by a single moment. This is more than a war story. It’s a conversation about purpose, pain, and finding strength beyond the barrel. If you like what you hear, like, subscribe and follow the Beyond the Barrel podcast on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_barrel_pod/⁠⁠