This weekend, we learned the devastating news that John Bartolo passed away. This is a huge loss for our community, and I am still sitting here in shock trying to wrap my head around it all.  

I had the good fortune of meeting John this past September when I was a guest on his show, and we hit it off immediately. We shared a passion for firearms defense, and when I think about people who have been steadfast in pioneering the need for change in our industry, John is at the top of the list.  

He spoke with an intensity that was unrivaled and pulled no punches. To anyone who knew him or followed his extremely popular podcast, he was not only a great guy but genuine, innovative, and above all else, honest. 

I believed wholeheartedly in the work John was doing for our industry and experienced this first-hand as a sponsor of his show. But it was so much more than that. I’m grateful to call John more than a colleague, but a dear friend.  

My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. Travel well my brother, you will be missed. 

Tom 

John Bartolo with SecureIt President and CEO Tom Kubiniec
John Bartolo & Tom Kubiniec during a recent episode of the John Bartolo Show.