In this powerful and thought-provoking interview, Kevin Dixie—founder and owner of No Other Choice Firearms Training—takes us on an unforgettable journey from the streets of St. Louis to the national stage. Known as the "Hood Preacher," Kevin’s voice resonates deeply as he shares his experiences as a jailer at the St. Louis City Police Department, his work as an executive protection specialist, and his evolution into a respected firearms trainer and civil rights advocate.
Kevin opens up about growing up in the hood and witnessing firsthand the cycle of violence, trauma, and the systemic challenges that shape so many young Black men’s lives. He shares how his past shaped his mission to educate and empower communities, giving them the tools not just to survive, but to thrive. His raw honesty about trauma, emotional intelligence, and the hard lessons he’s learned makes this conversation unforgettable.
From being featured on the cover of Time Magazine—where he delivered a message that moved even the audio engineer to tears—to building the Greenwood Project on 40 acres of land, Kevin demonstrates the impact one man’s vision can have on an entire community. His passion for mentoring kids, teaching them to value themselves before they pick up a gun, and instilling in them a sense of self-worth shines through every word.
Kevin doesn’t shy away from addressing the tough topics. He breaks down why the “tough guy” image can be dangerous, why emotional intelligence is critical for gun owners—especially Black men—and how he navigates accusations of gatekeeping in the firearms community. He also shares the importance of collaboration over competition, highlighting fellow trainers and advocates who are doing important work in the space.
His message is clear: "Before you pick up a gun, pick up value." Kevin’s mission is not just about firearms; it’s about saving lives, building communities, and creating generational change. He shows us how we can be leaders in our own neighborhoods, even when the odds are stacked against us.
Join us for this inspiring and challenging interview that will leave you rethinking what it means to be armed, empowered, and educated in today’s world
