In 1988, Sonny Jones recognized something that the firearms industry had largely overlooked: women were participating in shooting sports, self-defense, hunting, and firearms ownership in meaningful ways, yet they had few places where their experiences were represented. She acted on that vision and launched Women & Guns, the world’s first firearms publication dedicated exclusively to women.
What began as a bold idea grew into a trusted resource and a powerful platform for women across the firearms community.
For more than three decades, Women & Guns informed, connected, and inspired readers through stories of training, competition, self-defense, advocacy, hunting, leadership, and personal growth. Under the leadership of Publisher Julianne Versnel Gottlieb and Executive Editor Peggy Tartaro, the magazine became far more than a publication. It became a gathering place for women who were finding their voice in an industry that was rapidly evolving.
Peggy understood something that remains true today: women belong in every part of the conversation.
The pages of Women & Guns featured everyday gun owners alongside industry executives. Trainers shared space with competitors, advocates, litigators, policy makers, hunters, and defenders. The magazine celebrated women from every walk of life who shared a common interest in firearms and a commitment to personal responsibility, education, and empowerment.
When the final print edition was published in January 2019, it marked the end of a remarkable chapter. But it was never intended to be the end of the story.
Today, that story continues through the launch of the Women & Guns Podcast.
While magazines capture moments in time, podcasts create conversations. They allow listeners to hear the voices behind the accomplishments, the lessons behind the headlines, and the experiences that shape the women influencing our industry every day.
Hosted by Jenifer Pirrone, the Women & Guns Podcast carries forward the publication’s original mission while embracing a modern platform that connects audiences in new ways. Through regular conversations with women who are blazing trails, making a difference, and leaving a legacy, Jenifer explores the stories, challenges, successes, and insights that have shaped their journeys. Listeners will hear from trainers, competitors, business leaders, advocates, innovators, and community builders whose experiences continue to influence the future of the firearms community.
The firearms industry has changed dramatically since 1988. Women now represent one of the fastest-growing segments of firearms ownership and participation. Their influence can be seen across every corner of the industry, from retail counters and training ranges to boardrooms, legislative chambers, and championship podiums. Yet the need for authentic storytelling remains as important as ever.
Stories create connection. Conversations build understanding. Shared experiences inspire action.
The Women & Guns Podcast exists to continue the work that Peggy Tartaro helped cultivate for more than thirty years. Through thoughtful conversations led by Jenifer Pirrone, it honors the legacy of a publication that opened doors while creating new opportunities for the next generation of women to share their experiences, perspectives, and expertise.
The medium may have changed, but the mission remains the same: to celebrate women’s contributions to the firearms community, elevate voices that matter, foster connection through shared experiences, and ensure that the stories shaping our industry continue to reach and inspire future generations.
A new chapter begins.
The stories continue.
This time, you can hear them.
Welcome to the Women & Guns Podcast.
