The Coptimizer Podcast: Recent Episodes
Patrick Flannelly
The Copitimzer program looks to connect today’s officers with leaders and experts who have thrived through life’s most difficult challenges. Each episode is geared around sharing evidence based approaches regarding sleep hygiene, nutrition guidelines, exercise programming, and stress reduction methodologies.
Along the way, we will share stories of success, failure, triumph, resilience, and GRIT! We take real world, first hand experience and use it to teach police officers and others optimal lifestyle habits to enhance personal health and wellness. This will translate to optimal performance at work and in life!
Gary Taubes is an investigative science and health journalist and co-founder of the non-profit Nutrition Science Initiative (NuSI.org). He is the author of Rethinking Diabetes (2024), The Case Against Sugar (2016), Why We Get Fat and What to Do About It (2011) and Good Calories, Bad Calories (2007), published as The Diet Delusion in the UK. Taubes is the recipient of a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Investigator Award in Health Policy Research, and has won numerous other awards for his journalism. These include the International Health Reporting Award from the Pan American Health Organization and the National Association of Science Writers Science in Society Journalism Award, which he won in 1996, 1999 and 2001. (He is the first print journalist to win this award three times.) Taubes graduated from Harvard College in 1977 with an S.B. degree in applied physics, and received an M.S. degree in engineering from Stanford University (1978) and in journalism from Columbia University (1981).
In this episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, host Patrick Flannelly introduces us to Jasur Talipov, a remarkable 18-year-old high school graduate. Jasur's unique approach to bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community, through his nonprofit organization and podcast, "Trust the Badge," is a story that is sure to captivate and inspire.
If you have concerns about our younger generation's maturity and dedication to American values, this episode will provide you with a shot of optimism and hope. This young man is an example, not just for his peers but anyone who questions why things are the way they are. Sitting around and complaining about it won’t change anything, but engaging and educating through volunteerism and activism will open you up to new perspectives. Trust me, the future is bright in people like Jasur!
The conversation delves into the complex issue of trust between police and communities, shedding light on the disrespect and mistrust often faced by officers. Jasur's motivations for starting his podcast, which provides a platform for law enforcement voices and aims to foster dialogue and understanding, are also explored. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamics of law enforcement and community relations.
Jasur, who will be attending the University of Florida to study political science, discusses his career aspirations, including a potential path in law to represent and serve police officers. His participation in the high school speech and debate team has honed his skills in understanding and articulating diverse perspectives, which he brings to his podcast interviews with police officers, government leaders, and community members.
Patrick shares his own career journey from the military to policing and his contemplation of law school, emphasizing the importance of courage, support, and personal growth. Together, they explore the intricacies of police work, recruitment, and the challenges new officers face in their roles.
The episode also addresses critical issues such as police use of force, the impact of Tasers, and the importance of body cameras. Jasur highlights stories from his research, including a powerful account of a police officer’s respectful treatment during a traffic stop, juxtaposed with instances of racial bias and inappropriate conduct.
Patrick and Jasur discuss the role of social media in police communication, the mental health challenges faced by officers, and the benefits of practices like meditation and martial arts for emotional regulation. They touch on controversial topics such as defunding the police and the consequences of such actions on community safety.
Join us for this insightful episode as we explore the complex landscape of policing, community relations, and the pursuit of justice through the eyes of a passionate young advocate.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of trust, accountability, and effective communication in law enforcement.
In this enlightening episode of the Coptimizer Podcast, host Patrick Flannelly sits down with Timo Sandritter, co-founder of Rippleworx and Magnusworx, to delve into the dynamic interplay of human performance, personal well-being, and public safety. As a former professional soccer player with a rich educational background in human performance, business, and law, Timo brings a unique perspective on integrating personal and professional lives for optimal well-being. The conversation spans Timo's journey from professional sports to his impactful work in human resources and organizational change, particularly within law enforcement agencies.
The episode also explores the critical theme of lifelong learning, with Patrick sharing his experiences in the Air Force and municipal law enforcement. Together, they discuss the nuanced challenges of training in high-stress environments like law enforcement and the military, emphasizing the importance of personalized training methodologies that cater to individual motivational drivers and the continuous assessment of training effectiveness.
Listeners will gain insights into the innovative approaches to enhance law enforcement training and development. They advocate for a feedback-rich culture in policing, applying advanced HR solutions and using software to measure and improve team performance.
This episode is about optimizing performance through training and nutrition and making meaningful changes in high-stress professions to improve overall life satisfaction and effectiveness.
Join Patrick and Timo as they delve into the complexities of public safety work, the power of proper training, and the pivotal role of leadership in fostering a culture of growth and wellness within law enforcement. This episode is not just about these topics but also about the transformative power of a career in public safety. Whether you're a professional in this field, interested in human performance, or simply eager to hear a compelling story of career transformation, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.
In this episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, join host Patrick Flannelly as he engages in an open and candid conversation with Johnette Van Dien, HCCPD Superintendent, on the crucial intersection of career in public safety, family health history, and personal wellness journeys.
From the onset, Johnette and Patrick unravel the complex health challenges in the public safety sector, reflecting on their experiences and the perspectives shared as fellow professionals. With a genuine desire to share insights and foster understanding, they delve into the nuances of life as Public Safety Communications Officers and Cops and the critical role of insulin resistance in the overall health of both.
Drawing from personal experiences, Johnette bravely shares her journey battling insulin resistance and the transformative impact of adopting a low-carbohydrate diet. Patrick, whose advocacy for lower-carb living spans decades, offers invaluable insights into the science behind metabolic disorders and the power of dietary interventions in achieving sustainable weight loss and improved health markers.
The conversation extends beyond individual narratives to explore the systemic challenges faced by public safety professionals, particularly dispatchers and officers, in managing stress and trauma. Johnette and Patrick highlight the need for holistic support systems and proactive measures to address the physical and mental toll of demanding roles.
As the conversation unfolds, listeners are presented with a plethora of practical tips and actionable advice on nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being. From dispelling myths about low-carb diets to advocating for personalized wellness approaches, Johnette and Patrick equip listeners with the tools to confidently and resiliently navigate their health journey.
Through their authentic exchange of stories and shared wisdom, Johnette and Patrick ignite a deeper contemplation on the interconnectedness of physical and emotional wellness. They urge listeners to embrace a holistic approach to self-care, inviting them on a transformative journey toward optimal health and vitality in the realm of public safety.
This week, I had a conversation with Richard "Dick" Odom, a former police officer, now author, whose journey through trauma, addiction, and redemption offers invaluable insights for first responders everywhere.
From his upbringing in a military family to his 17-year career in law enforcement, Dick’s story is a testament to the resilience and struggles faced by those on the front lines. But it wasn't until his life took a dark turn, marked by alcoholism, infidelity, and a suicide attempt, that Dick truly confronted the toll of his profession on his mental health.
In our conversation, we delve deep into the challenges of police accountability, the importance of mental wellness training, and the need for supportive leadership within law enforcement agencies. Dick's candid reflections shed light on the complexities of coping mechanisms and the critical role of supervisor intervention in preventing crises.
But it's not all darkness. Dick's journey also highlights the power of introspection, mentorship, and personal growth. As he shares his experiences, he advocates for better recruitment and retention strategies, emphasizing the need for financial management education and practical leadership programs.
Join us as we explore the intersections of trauma, morality, and human resilience in law enforcement. Together, we can foster a culture of support and understanding for our officers, ensuring they have the resources and compassion they need to thrive.
Tune in to the episode now on the Coptimizer Podcast, and let's continue the conversation on optimizing the well-being and performance of our first responders.
In a recent episode of our podcast, we were honored to have Major General (Ret.) Gregg Martin share his deeply personal and inspiring journey through bipolar disorder. His story is not just about the battles fought on the field but also about confronting the internal battles of mental illness. This conversation is especially relevant to law enforcement officers and leaders, drawing parallels to the high-stress, high-stakes environments they navigate, which often mirror the pressures faced in military careers.
Key Insights: End the Stigma: Major General Martin's openness about his bipolar disorder serves as a powerful call to action to reduce stigma and promote recovery. It's crucial for leaders in all sectors, including law enforcement, to foster an environment where mental health discussions are normalized. * Early Recognition and Action: Identifying symptoms early and seeking medical help can transform lives. For those in high-pressure jobs, acknowledging the need for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. * The Power of Support: Recovery is a team effort. The role of family, friends, and professionals in Major General Martin's journey underscores the importance of a supportive community in overcoming mental illness. * Holistic Approach to Recovery: Medication, therapy, and healthful living are foundational, but recovery also requires purpose, perseverance, and presence. These elements are vital for anyone, especially those in demanding roles. * Leadership Responsibility: Leaders must openly discuss mental health, provide education, and exemplify stigma reduction. Silence is not an option; it only serves to perpetuate the problem. * Workforce Accommodations: Making reasonable accommodations for those with mental health issues is the right thing to do and benefits the organization by retaining valuable talent. * Importance of Self-Care: Sleep, diet, exercise, and work-life balance are essential for mental health. These basics are often overlooked in high-stress professions but are critical for long-term well-being. * Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like yoga and breathing exercises can enhance mental well-being, offering tools for managing stress that are accessible to everyone, including those in law enforcement. * Early Education: Just as we teach physical health from a young age, mental health education should start early to build a foundation of understanding and compassion. * Leveraging Resources:* Major General Martin's book, among other resources, provides valuable insights into living with and managing mental illness, offering hope and guidance to others.
Actions for Organizations and Schools:* For Organizations: Implement regular mental health education, establish peer support systems, and ensure leaders are vocal about their commitment to mental health wellness. * For Schools: Integrate mental health education into the curriculum early, normalizing conversations around mental wellness.
Implementing Programs:Organizations can host mental health seminars, start peer support programs, and ensure easy access to mental health services. Schools can educate students about mental health, increasing awareness and understanding from a young age.
The Call to Action:Let's take inspiration from Major General Gregg Martin's courage and commitment to mental health awareness. By breaking the stigma, promoting early intervention, and providing comprehensive support, we can create safer, healthier environments for everyone, especially those who serve to protect us.
Listen to the full conversation on our podcast and join us in prioritizing mental health in every community. Together, we can change lives. #MentalHealthAwareness #Leadership #LawEnforcement #EndTheStigma #TheBipolarGeneral
This week, we had the pleasure of welcoming back Daniel Folk, the CEO of Performance Protocol, to our show. Daniel shared some incredible insights into the evolution of performance coaching within law enforcement and public safety sectors. We've seen remarkable growth in this field, and it's thrilling to witness the potential it holds for our brave first responders.
Our discussion delved into Performance Protocol's progress since last year, unveiling new offerings crafted from the valuable experiences gained while working closely with police chiefs and agencies nationwide. The journey toward innovation in policing is more crucial than ever, and together, we're exploring the pathways that lead to enhanced individual and agency performance.
But it's not all about coaching. We also tackled the critical challenges of recruiting new officers. The landscape is changing, and the need for streamlined processes and robust support for applicants is glaringly apparent. Your participation in our upcoming survey will be invaluable as we dive deep into these recruitment and coaching challenges, aiming to shed light on actionable solutions.
Are you curious about “The Scorecard” and how the survey results might compare to those of your agency? This tool will provide a comprehensive look at the current state of law enforcement recruiting and retention. It will be a game-changer for agencies looking to improve their practices and, ultimately, their community impact.
Thanks again for spending some of your valuable time with us. We're committed to bringing more enlightening discussions and resources your way. Join us on this journey to optimize performance and drive meaningful change in public safety. Together, we can make a real difference in our communities.
In this thought-provoking episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, host Patrick Flannelly, a retired Chief of Police and wellness advocate, sits down with Chief John Clair to dive deep into the intersection of policing, technology, and community engagement. As a show dedicated to the health, wellness, and performance optimization of police officers and first responders, this episode takes an intriguing turn to discuss the broader implications of technology in law enforcement.
Chief Clair, a seasoned law enforcement professional with 25 years of experience spanning small towns to large metropolitan agencies and a background that includes military service and an almost-stint in seminary, brings a wealth of unique perspectives to the table. He challenges the notion that efficiency, often touted in the context of policing technology like real-time crime centers and body cameras, is the ultimate goal. Instead, he advocates for a human-centric approach, emphasizing the essential human element of policing that technology cannot replace.
Listeners will be treated to candid stories, including a humorous anecdote about a young salesperson’s unfamiliarity with podcasts, mirroring Patrick’s playful banter about generational gaps in tech-savvyness. The episode navigates various facets of law enforcement challenges, from staffing shortages and the controversial lowering of physical fitness standards to the potential pitfalls of body cameras and AI in policing.
Patrick and John share insights on how technology, while valuable, should uphold the importance of relational trust, human interaction, and community building in policing. They discuss the evolution of police work in the digital age, the impact of technology on accountability and community connections, and the importance of balancing technological advancements with core policing competencies.
As the episode unfolds, Patrick proposes innovative ways technology can support officers, from auto-transcribing administrative tasks to improving investigation efficiency. Yet, he and John caution against allowing technology to create a disconnect between officers and their communities.
Join us for this enlightening discussion on The Coptimizer Podcast, where the conversation goes beyond the surface to explore the critical balance between embracing technology and preserving the essence of policing. Whether you’re in law enforcement, interested in the role of technology in public services, or simply curious about the future of community policing, this episode offers valuable insights and thoughtful reflections that are sure to pique your interest.
♂️ Get ready for an engaging conversation that delves into the heart of what it means to serve and protect in the age of technology. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
TheCoptimizerPodcast #Policing #Technology #CommunityEngagement #LawEnforcement #PodcastEpisode
In a compelling conversation on #TheCoptimizerPodcast, @Tod Langley, CEO of Crisis Response Leader Training, shines a light on the urgent need for reform in law enforcement training methodologies. This discussion delves into crucial areas that demand our attention:
- Beyond the Basics: The call for law enforcement to embrace frequent, scenario-based active shooter response training that goes beyond mere firearms proficiency. It's about nurturing skills in leadership, critical thinking, and decision-making under stress.
- Bridging the Training Gap: Langley discusses the significant gap between the initial training at police academies and the ongoing training required to maintain readiness. He emphasizes that compliance-based training is not enough for real preparedness.
- The Power of After-Action Reviews: Despite their importance, legal liabilities hinder the transparent sharing of lessons learned from training exercises and real-world events. This is a critical area that must be addressed to improve training programs.
- Innovative Training Solutions: Introducing AI and simulation-based training approaches offers an engaging, knowledgeable, and critical thinking-oriented method. Such technologies promise regular, cost-effective training options beyond large-scale exercises.
- Learning from Leadership Failures: The conversation also touches upon the leadership failures observed in incidents like Uvalde, underscoring the need for a unified command structure and enhanced training for incident commanders in situational awareness and managing complex incidents.
Tod Langley’s insights provide a clear roadmap for evolving law enforcement training to meet today's challenges effectively. Whether you're in law enforcement, involved in training and development, or simply passionate about public safety, this episode is a must-listen.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how we can collectively work towards more effective crisis response training and leadership in law enforcement. Let's engage in this critical conversation and push for change together. #LawEnforcementTraining #PublicSafety #Leadership #CrisisResponse #InnovationInTraining #CoptimizerPodcast
In our latest episode on the Coptimizer Podcast, we had the profound privilege of sitting down with Chief of Police Shawn Keen. Through the lens of heartbreaking experiences managing the line-of-duty deaths of police officers, Chief Keen shared invaluable insights and hard-earned wisdom on preparing and responding to critical incidents as a leader.
Key takeaways from our conversation include:
- Preparation is Paramount: Officers are encouraged to complete a comprehensive line of duty death form detailing wishes for handling their affairs and to update it regularly.
- Immediate and Compassionate Communication: Prioritizing the immediate notification of the fallen officer's family before the spread of information through social media or informal channels.
- Transparent Internal Communication: Keeping current officers informed to mitigate rumors and notifying retired officers who maintain close ties to the department.
- Media Relations: The importance of having a prepared statement for press conferences that respects the officer and their family.
- Emotional Support: Recognizing the profound emotional impact on officers and ensuring mental health resources are readily available.
- Continuous Improvement: Based on experience and new information, constantly evolving response plans and services for officers are crucial.
- Community and Media Engagement: Building solid relationships with the media and being ready to speak as the Chief in these critical moments.
- Utilizing Resources and Networking: Leveraging all available resources, including accreditation bodies and networks with other agencies, for best practices and support.
- Investing in Training and Resources: Regular training on active shooter response and critical incidents, improving span of control and communication, and investing in quality training resources to meet community expectations.
- Leadership and Crisis Response: The importance of leadership development and training for effective crisis response.
Chief Keen's experiences, particularly managing the aftermath of line-of-duty deaths, underscore the multifaceted role of law enforcement leaders in crisis management. The conversation highlighted the necessity of preparation, the value of immediate and compassionate communication, and the critical role of continuous improvement and support systems.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone in law enforcement, leadership, or interested in understanding the complexities and responsibilities of managing critical incidents. Join us to gain deeper insights into the courage, resilience, and dedication required to lead through tragedy.
Tune into the Coptimizer Podcast to hear Chief Shawn Keen's invaluable lessons on leadership during the most challenging times. Let’s honor those we’ve lost by learning, improving, and supporting one another in our communities and beyond. #Leadership #LawEnforcement #CrisisManagement #PublicSafety #CoptimizerPodcast
Excited to share insights from a powerful episode of #TheCoptimizerPodcast, where host Patrick Flannelly, a retired chief of police, and guest Dr. Tom Rifai dive deep into weight loss, nutrition, and healthy lifestyle changes.
Dr. Rifai's journey from medical school to advocating for lifestyle medicine underscores nutrition and lifestyle's critical role in disease prevention and healthcare. His personal battle with binge eating disorder offers a raw, enlightening perspective on overcoming obstacles for health improvement.
The episode also shines a light on managing stress and weight, especially in high-stakes professions like law enforcement. Patrick Flannelly's discussions on the physiological impacts of stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep provide actionable insights for anyone looking to optimize their health.
Special mention to Larry, a patient who reversed his diabetes and heart disease by adopting non-negotiable healthy habits, proving that sustainable changes are possible and practical. The point is, if Larry can do it, so can you!
Whether you're in law enforcement, struggling with weight management, or simply seeking a healthier lifestyle, this episode offers valuable tools, strategies, and personal stories of transformation. Let's take these lessons to heart and work towards a healthier, more fulfilled life.
HealthyLiving #WeightLossJourney #Nutrition #LifestyleMedicine #LawEnforcementHealth
Unlock the secret to enhanced health, performance, and resilience with our latest episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, featuring Jesse Coomer, author of "The Practical Guide to Breathwork," and Jared McKee, a retired Chief of Police turned Public Safety Director. Dive into an enlightening discussion on how the ancient practice of breathwork revolutionizes how law enforcement officers manage stress, improve mental clarity, and boost physical performance. Discover the science behind breathwork, learn practical techniques you can apply immediately, and hear firsthand experiences from law enforcement professionals who have transformed their lives and careers through mindful breathing. Whether on the front lines, behind a desk, or simply seeking ways to elevate your well-being, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of breath to change your life. Tune in to explore how integrating simple breathwork practices can lead to profound improvements in health, stress management, and overall performance, making it a must-listen for anyone in the law enforcement community and beyond.
In my latest episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, I spoke with Jesse Coomer and Jared McKee. Here are the Top 10 Lessons Learned regarding breathwork for health, performance, and law enforcement:
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- Breathwork Fundamentals: Understanding the basics of breathwork and its impact on the nervous system is crucial for managing stress, enhancing focus, and improving physical and mental health.
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- Mitigating Stress: Breathwork techniques can significantly mitigate stress and anxiety, which is crucial for high-stress professions like law enforcement.
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- Enhancing Performance: Regular breathwork practice can enhance physical performance and mental clarity, aiding in critical decision-making and physical endurance.
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- Health Benefits: Beyond stress reduction, breathwork has tangible health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, better sleep quality, and enhanced digestive function.
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- Application in Law Enforcement: Breathwork is beneficial for personal health and can be a critical tool in law enforcement, aiding officers in maintaining calm and focus in high-pressure situations.
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- Breathing Techniques: Learning specific breathing techniques, such as the "Breath Wave," can help optimize breathing efficiency and effectiveness.
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- Practical Application: The practice of breathwork is not limited to meditation sessions but can be integrated into daily activities and routines, including pre-and post-shift routines for officers.
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- Training and Education: Educating law enforcement personnel on the science and practice of breathwork can lead to broader adoption and normalization of the profession.
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- Cultural Shift: Incorporating breathwork into law enforcement training can contribute to a cultural shift towards prioritizing mental health and wellness within the profession.
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- Continued Learning and Practice: Mastering breathwork requires continued practice and education, suggesting the importance of ongoing training programs and resources for law enforcement agencies.
As a seasoned leader with over 30 years of invaluable leadership experience, Randall Doizaki is passionate about cultivating exceptional leadership capabilities in both individuals and groups. His dedication to personal and group leadership development, honed over years as a leader in both the public and private sectors, as a business owner and an expert leader, drives his commitment to unlock the full potential of teams and individuals alike.
Drawing upon his diverse background as a retired law enforcement officer and a United States Marine, Doizaki offers a unique perspective on leadership that is rooted in discipline, adaptability, and unwavering commitment. This foundation, combined with his advanced degrees in Organizational Leadership and Human Resources, allows him to provide tailored coaching and deliver impactful presentations and keynote speeches.
His mission is clear: to elevate organizational performance, nurture employee growth, and drive success.
Welcome to a riveting episode of the Coptimizer Podcast, your go-to source for unlocking peak performance in law enforcement leadership. Today's dialogue dives into a fundamental truth often echoed in our discussions: effective leadership begins with mastering self-leadership. This concept, though deceptively simple, embodies one of life's most challenging pursuits.
Our special guest, Sarah Draper, exemplifies this journey of leadership and personal development. As a retired Supervisory Special Agent from the FBI with a robust background in counterterrorism and an esteemed tenure as an Army Officer from West Point, Sarah's experiences are nothing short of extraordinary. Her storied career is a testament to the adage 'been there, done that,' rich with insights far beyond the digital realms of our current Instagram culture.
Sarah's commitment to the welfare of those in service remains unwavering, even post her FBI career. She champions a powerful mantra: "For a leader to lead well, they must be well." This philosophy, while seemingly straightforward, is often overlooked in the realms of law enforcement leadership. Evidence lies in the alarming data showing high rates of insulin resistance among police officers and leaders, signaling a crisis in self-care and optimal performance.
Through her venture, Leading Well Strategies, Sarah embarks on a mission to educate and coach contemporary leaders. Her approach is rooted in the belief that leaders owe it to both their teams and loved ones to be at their very best. Drawing from her extensive experience in high-stakes environments and her work with numerous executive leaders, Sarah's guidance is tailored to help today's leaders not just survive, but thrive in demanding situations.
Join us in this episode to explore Sarah's remarkable journey and discover the transformative impact of her strategies. In contrast to conventional leadership programs that emphasize doing more to achieve happiness, Sarah advocates a paradigm shift—prioritizing self-care and enjoyment in the present as the true pathway to peak performance. Tune in to absorb the wisdom and strategies that can elevate you and your agency to unprecedented heights.
Chad Bruckner is a motivational speaker, leadership guru and is a retired police officer and combat veteran.
Chad draws from his personal experience in the military and law enforcement to share his journey and how it has shaped his perspective on the importance of mental and emotional health in the field. He also shares his tips on how to become an emotional warrior and thrive in the profession.
Kristin Stapleton helps visionary leaders escape the fear of uncertainty. With the right talent, companies can grow quickly and efficiently, but getting the right people in the door is only half the challenge; the other half is getting your people engaged in the opportunities ahead.
Every industry is dealing with disruption. Employees come to work everyday and do the work they've always done, yet we are solving problems that we've never seen before. These changes require a different mindset and a different environment to produce exceptional results.
With one system, Stapleton helps visionary leaders create strategic coherence. The result is a team that adapts more quickly, is more fulfilled at work and in life, and produces exceptional results, even when you're not in the room.
One of the biggest life lessons we all must learn is that it is not nearly as important as where you start, but where you go along the way makes all the difference. Robert Frost wrote a poem about it. Well, kind of. It really does not have to be the road less traveled; it is more like just choosing a road and seeing where it takes you. As long as you do that, there will be choices to make along the way.
This week's guest on #TheCoptimizerPodcast is Eric Clague. He started his road to policing courtesy of Uncle Sam and the United States Army. This journey led him to a profound experience in Afghanistan, where service, sacrifice, and commitment were forged. After serving in the Army, he stepped right into another service-centered career: policing.
Some people just catch the learning bug, and they can’t let it go. #IYKYK For Eric, his time in policing took him to some pretty cool assignments, working narcotics and eventually becoming a Field Training Officer. But sometimes, in policing, it is hard not to ask, “Why do we do it that way?” And, if you are a process-oriented person looking to gain efficiency, that question can sometimes become all-consuming, and it can take you to unexpected destinations.
For Eric, he wound up starting his own company while he was working as a police officer. This led to the dilemma that many who choose to expand their horizons must ultimately face. Where to focus time and effort? Sometimes, when you like more things than one, it can be problematic if you begin to burn the candle at both ends. While some cops choose to spend time on non-productive, unhealthy endeavors that cost them sleep and time with their families, this was not the case with Eric. However, he faced the same reality: only twenty-four hours a day.
Ultimately, Eric made the tough decision to leave a career in policing that he really loved to pursue a different challenge. Make it on his own. In America today, police departments face the reality that many of our officers are highly intelligent and talented people who choose policing over more profitable and, dare I say, more qualified life-oriented professions. And now, many of them are leaving to pursue other careers.
In this episode, I wanted to have that conversation. Why leave a profession you love? Eric can tell you in his own words. In this case, there looks to be a happy ending on the horizon. Without giving away the whole story, I’ll just say this: Eric is coming back to law enforcement as a business entrepreneur, and a product that he is hoping will make the job easier for our police officers. I think it will. So, we will call that a great start to a happy ending.
In continuation of our monthly theme, this week's guest is Troy Torrence. A few weeks ago, we featured Louisana Detective Coory Joshlin. Last week, we had Freddy Camacho, a retired Sergeant from California, living out his retirement on the beautiful island of Maui, Hawaii. What do all three of these guests have in common? No guessing or waiting today; the answer is CrossFit. But that is just one of many things, including public safety careers.
With Coory, we talked about how important it is to begin. To understand where work needs to be done, regardless of what point of your career you are in. It is never too late to get to work on your fitness. Why? That is where Freddy comes in. We wanted to show you what is possible in life after policing. Poor outcomes, like heart attack, diabetes, cancer, and other maladies of stress, are not inevitable. They are preventable. Freddy is living his best life in Hawaii, post-law enforcement. He is happy, healthy, and thriving. Most importantly, he is resilient, using that strength to help others build back from the terrible fires his community experienced earlier this summer.
That leaves us with this week’s guest, Troy Torrence. Troy is the Health Management Specialist for the Indiana State Police. A role that he started in 2000. The ISP has taken a forward-looking approach to officer wellness and performance for over twenty years. In fact, one thing I learned that I did not know was their program has been going since the 1980s! So make that forty years!
Troy received his Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology in 1999 from the University of Wisconsin LaCrosse. Before working with public safety, he was a corporate wellness manager for the National Institute for Fitness. His continuing education and certifications are extensive, and his knowledge and experience are invaluable.
Everyone who works in public safety will fight an uphill battle regarding health and fitness. But it is a winnable and, more importantly, a battle that must be fought daily throughout a career. Diseases of Public Safety are manageable and, in most cases, completely preventable. This is where Troy comes in. From day one at the academy, he is focused on building resilience that will last over the span of a career. This is not just to improve wellness but to drive high-performance levels.
If you are looking to start a wellness program for your agency, I suggest one of the first calls you make it to Troy. In this episode of the Coptimizer Podcast, we discussed the importance of starting early. Troy provides some specific ideas for things officers at any agency can do to get started.
Remember, the life you save may be your own, so get to work!
Are you living your best life? Check that, are you capable of living your best life? If not, what is holding you back? Last week, we had a great conversation with @Coory Joshlin about his journey towards fitness as he heads into his mid-40s and down the backstretch of his law enforcement career. The main takeaway: It is never too late to get started.
This week, I’ll show you why.
Enter CrossFit “O.G.” Freddy Camacho, a retired police officer from the Bay Area in California. If you ever need an example to follow when it comes to preparing yourself to live your best life, tune in. Like Coory, Freddy started his law enforcement career a little later in life than most, in his thirties. Before that, he worked on the railroad “all his live-long days.” Sorry, couldn’t help myself. He was also a fighter, and he was training with some officers who planted the idea within him that he should consider a career in law enforcement. Once the seed was planted, it didn’t take long to root, and within the year, he was working with the police, not against them, like in some of the wild days of his youth. (Recruiters: take note!)
The best police officers come in all forms and those who have lived a little before donning the badge bring the experience that can benefit them on the street. They make some of the best cops we have in America.
Freddy retired as a Sergeant after working in South San Francisco before heading to Union City. He worked patrol and traffic and was also a SWAT officer. He also owned and operated a few CrossFit gyms along the way, the first one as part of the fighting gym where he trained. If you have been on the CrossFit scene for a while, you have probably heard of CrossFit One World. Later, with his wife, Chyna, they opened CrossFit GFY. Yes, go fitness yourself.
But, this show is not about CrossFit, although it plays a central role in where Freddy is today. Where I know return to the question: Are you living your best life? Freddy is living his best life. He has retired, moved to beautiful Lahaina, Hawaii, and is using his fitness to maximize his retirement. He still trains regularly, works part-time on a sailboat, and rides his road bike all over the island. He is not a tired, angry, bitter cop who was counting the days to punch out. In fact, he still misses the job but is ready to take on new adventures. And he was prepared to do so because he put in the work when it mattered the most.
I started following Freddy when he was competing as a CrossFit Games athlete. Then he moved into the Master's Division, and I moved along with him because we were about the same age. He was regularly featured in the CrossFit Journal and was known to do some soul-crushing workouts. But he was also known for always having some fun and not taking life too seriously. So, I followed him from afar on the leaderboard until I had the chance to meet him in person at the World Police & Fire Games in Los Angeles, where we competed together in the 50-55 Age Group.
Now, we are both retired Cops, and we are both still plugging away at our fitness. Why? Well, maybe the question should be, why not? Who wouldn’t want to retire to Hawaii and live the amazing island life post-law enforcement? Freddy is a living example of what every cop should strive for. Have an amazing career and enjoy a long, happy, and healthy retirement. Which is what this show is all about.
This summer, I was fortunate enough to spend a few weeks in Hawaii, and one of those days was on a sailboat out of Lahaina. It was not Freddy’s crew, but I realized I wanted to talk with him and share his story, so we connected after returning home.
We had a pre-call on a Friday and had a great chat, and then planned to record the episode the following Friday. But life is what happens when you are making other plans. And instead of recording that episode, Freddy and thousands of others were fighting for their lives in Lahaina as a wildfire ripped through the town. He was fortunate to make it out okay, but as we all know, many were not. Hundreds of people were tragically killed, and the city was devasted, displacing thousands of people, including Freddy and his family.
But here is the important part and why I think you should take note of Freddy's example. Life is not just about survival but also helping others along the way. It is about putting yourself in a position to be useful when others need you the most. That is what being a cop is all about - helping others in need. Freddy and his wife have not only navigated the circumstances they have been dealt with, but they are also helping others recover and do the same.
One of the mantras from CrossFit is: Prepare for the unknown and the unknowable. It applies to policing and life. After you listen to this show, please consider helping those still struggling to rebuild in Maui. Here is one way you can help fellow officers in need. In the meantime, go train; the life you save may be your own!
For the next few weeks, we are going to focus on fitness. Well, in part, anyway. This show has always been based on the concept of performance optimization. When discussing optimal human performance, you can't start the conversation without understanding the foundational principle: Fitness.
There are many things in the policing world that are outside of our individual control. Fitness is not one of them. In fact, it might be one of the few things that we have total control over. But saying it does not make it easy. Understanding this foundational truth can add pressure to the decision to do it. But we don't want to focus on the negative; we want to show you what is possible once the decision is made.
Today's guest on #TheCoptimizerPodcast is Coory Joshlin, a police officer in Louisiana. Coory was recently featured in a popular online fitness magazine, The Morning Chalk-Up.
https://morningchalkup.com/2023/08/24/coory-joshlin-found-crossfit-weighing-419-pounds-proving-you-dont-have-to-be-in-shape-to-start-crossfit/
It can be compelling when people share their personal journey, regardless of the topic. But when it comes to police officers and obesity, there is a lesson for all of us to learn from. At 6'4" and 419 pounds, Coory is not your average cop! A former machinist by trade before entering his career in policing, he was not shy of hard work. But being a machinist, doing manual labor, is different from the sedentary and high-stress environment that is law enforcement. Now, throw in shift work, sleep deprivation, and a few other toxic stressors for the body, and you have a recipe for trouble.
Like most things in life, the upward movement on the scale does not happen overnight. It is a slow, if not insidious, process. It sneaks up on you and reveals itself at inopportune times. For cops, sadly, the first sign of trouble can be bad news in the form of a heart attack or other disorders related to chronic stress. But it does not have to be this way. And to be more hopeful, if you recognize you have a problem, that is good news because that means you are in a position to change it! It is not inevitable.
Coory got just such news. His doctor told him he was on a destructive path and would have big problems before he hit 50 if he didn't correct the course. When you are in your early 40's, 50 is not that far away. Plus, I probably disagree to some extent with his doctor. He would be lucky to make 50 at all on the continued course. Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of cops, and number two, suicide, is not even close. Not coincidentally, chronic metabolic disorders are rampant in police work, and new science is revealing its role in depression, anxiety, and other mental health struggles. Again, the good news is that it is reversible, and Coory is on the path.
There is no one "right" way to start down the path of improvement, but there is a clear "wrong" way. And the wrong way is to do nothing, to hope things get better. But hope is not a plan; it is a pipe dream. So get inspired by listening to Coory tell us why and how he got on the fitness train and see what works for him.
“I exist on this earth to help others.”
How is that for the opening line of a personal mission statement? No need to look anywhere else for any clarification. If I didn't know any better, I would think that I am reading the first line of a police officer application where we ask, "Why do you want to be a police officer?"
If you are a police leader, review your applicants' answers to this question. But first, if you are not asking this question, it might be past time to start. The answer to the question will almost always be a variation of them, "because I want to help others."
Finding the right person to enter into the profession of policing is the first and most important priority for police departments. You can't build a solid foundation with the wrong people. When you find them, you have to invest in them.
In this episode of the #CoptimizerPodcast, I brought the guest into the home studio and dug into the pressing question of the day. How do we find, support, and encourage the next generation of young Americans to enter into policing? Who better to speak with about this than with Lucas Woody, a positive performance coach! A young(er) version representative of today's working generation that works to help connect people to their passion. Thus, his powerful opening purpose statement, "I exist on this earth to help others."
If you are struggling to understand why recruiting is difficult in today's world, this is a great conversation to listen to. There is no better place to learn than from someone who is there and gets it!
In this episode we touch on the motivations of young workers and what they are looking for from employers, and more importantly, from themselves. We also discuss how professional coaching can help drive satisfaction, in ourselves, and our organizations.
When you dedicate yourself to a career that spans over forty years in law enforcement, you learn a thing or two. This week's guest on #TheCoptimizerPodcast, is John DeHaas. We have a truly exceptional guest with a wealth of experience that we believe every police leader should listen to. In this episode, we cover many topics, particularly around police oversight. My takeaways are many, but the lyrics of the old country song by singer Randy Travis bring a cautionary tale to mind regarding police reform.
"And I hear tell the road to hell is paved with good intentions, but mama my intentions were the best!"
Now, before you think it is all bad, it's not. Reform is necessary, but the caution is in how we approach it and, more importantly, who we entrust it to.
John brings a unique blend of academic insight, conflict resolution skills, and a four-decade-long professional background in law enforcement to the conversation.
He has spent his career helping individuals and organizations peel back the layers of conflict to reveal the underlying factors. He believes proper resolution goes beyond mere surface-level interests; it's about understanding the deep-seated beliefs, emotions, behaviors, and stories that fuel discord. If you're a police leader seeking to get to the heart of complex conflicts within your community or department, John's insights are invaluable.
John's journey is a testament to his unyielding dedication to bridging divides. With a background that includes military service and leadership roles within the Vancouver Police Department, including eight years as the president of the Vancouver Police Union, John has navigated a vast spectrum of conflicts. He's seen it all, from disputes between individuals on the streets to high-stakes labor relations disputes. His experience speaks to the breadth of challenges that law enforcement leaders face daily.
During his tenure as a police manager, John demonstrated a knack for building collaborative bridges between law enforcement and the communities they serve. He initiated and oversaw successful police-citizen tables, which brought people together to address social conflicts at their roots. His ability to create dialogue and cooperation in adversity is a lesson that can't be missed in today's complex policing landscape.
So, whether you're a police leader striving to understand and navigate intricate conflicts, looking to draw from the experience of a seasoned professional in the trenches, or seeking inspiration to build stronger community connections, John DeHass has something invaluable to share.
Begin with the end in mind. It is a topic we have covered on The Coptimizer Podcast regularly. It applies to just about everything we do in life. Yet, how many of us struggle with this simple yet essential life tip? As we get older, we generally get wiser. That is not always the case, but even for us knuckledraggers, it is a simple truth.
It has been said that knowledge is a necessary precondition for wisdom, but it is possible to have knowledge without wisdom. It has also been said that knowledge without wisdom is like water in the sand. Chew on that for a few minutes. Okay, maybe just think on it; afterall, nothing is worse than eating a mouth full of sand.
The problem with knowledge is that we are not always prepared to seek it or, worse yet, accept it when it is presented to us. Sometimes, the school of hard knocks is a more powerful teacher than learning by the examples (or failures) of others. A wise person knows how to avoid the suffering of others.
In this week's episode, I had a great conversation with former police officer and Marine veteran Scott Medlin. He is the author of several books, including the one we discussed, 101 Health Tips for Police Officers: How to Be Physically, Mentally, Socially, and Spiritually Fit for Duty. As you can probably tell already, we have a lot in common. Maybe the one thing in common we didn't cover is the hard truth about the difference between wisdom and knowledge. Like Scott and myself, I can say with a high level of confidence that anyone reading this or listening to the Podcast will also have had struggles with learning from the mistakes of others. As Cops, particularly when it comes to physical and mental well-being, we tend to enroll in the school of hard knocks before graduating to learn from the mistakes of others.
As such, we like to take the lessons from the physical and emotional scars and share the stories with others, or at least those ready to hear them. The rest will have to wait. Scott tells us his story of how his life unfolded as he transitioned from Marine combat veteran to Police K-9 Officer. Somewhere along the journey, Scott lost his identity. More to the point, he began to identify with things that were not him but more of an idea of him.
Click here for another example of symbolism and the trouble it can create.
So, if you want to accelerate your learning curve, jump on this episode and pick up a copy of Scott's book. If you're going to get a head start, skip to the end of the episode, where we cover the Top 20! Scott's story is powerful, and he wants to share what he has learned from others so they can enjoy a long, prosperous, and healthy journey through the challening and rewarding law enforcement career.
You can watch this podcast on our YouTube channel by clicking here.
Welcome to another riveting episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, where we delve into the gritty realities of life in the various departments that keep our communities safe. Today, we have a special guest who's been there, done that, and has the stories to prove it – Chris Hoyer. You see, every department has at least one of these officers. Some steer clear of them, while others ride their wake, for in their path lies work, and quite often, a mountain of paperwork!
Now, before you raise an eyebrow, let's set the record straight. We're talking about the "shit magnets." To our non-law enforcement listeners, you might think it's a slight, but in this world, it's a peculiar badge of honor, depending on which side of the line you stand.
If you're drawn to the action, you'd follow an officer like Chris Hoyer anywhere. And on this week's episode, we're taking a wild ride through his roller coaster of a career.
Chris was no ordinary cop. While most officers never discharge their duty weapon in defense of life, Chris did so not once, but three times. His first in the very first year, and the second in the second year of his career. You might think this is the norm, but the truth about police action shootings is far from what's portrayed on our favorite television shows. These are real people, living in the real world, and sometimes, officers find themselves on the wrong end of the exchange. You'll have to tune in to hear about that third incident.
After more than two decades on the streets, facing horrors most can't even fathom, Chris retired. He hung up his badge, picked up a pen, and grabbed a microphone. His new mission? To write and speak publicly, sharing his experiences to help the law enforcement community prepare for the trauma that's an inevitable part of the job.
Chris has spoken to thousands – first responders, mental health professionals, and various professional entities, laying his story bare in hopes of saving lives.
In his book, "When that Day Comes; Training for the Fight," Chris offers a glimpse into his training and experience with law enforcement and other first responders. He emphasizes the critical importance of preparation, both mentally and physically, to survive the stressful and sometimes deadly encounters on the job. Chris isn't a superhero; he's a regular guy who's had his fair share of experiences, and he's learned how to manage the emotions that come with being a street cop involved in deadly encounters. He's confident in his abilities, and he's here to share his story with you today, so that you, too, can survive and thrive.
So, buckle up your gunbelt and turn up your radio because you're in for a powerful journey. Enjoy the ride!
Danny McGuire has been both student and staff at Calumet College of St Joseph, and he experienced the sense of belonging to its full extent. After years in law enforcement, an injury forced McGuire to leave the career he loved so much. Rather than letting the circumstance overwhelm him, McGuire found his way to CCSJ as a student and quickly absorbed everything he could.
McGuire received his Bachelor's Degree from CCSJ and then continued on to receive two Master's Degrees and a Doctorate from other universities. The foundation given to him at CCSJ truly impacted him and allowed him to continue his education. After time, he found his way back to where it all began and started teaching with the college. Now, he spends his time helping those who aspire to have or are working through a career in public safety.
Normally I avoid social media debates, but the other day I weighed in one about officer fitness. Maybe it would be more appropriate if I said that I “gave my two cents worth” and avoid the pun. Either way, I commented. It was a LinkedIn thread. An officer posted a video of himself, in full gear, doing pull-ups. A lot of pull-ups. He was clearly fit. It was meant to be a motivational post, the kind that says, the enemy is training, so maybe you should also.
It didn’t take long for someone to comment that it is not always possible for patrol officers to workout on duty
Not every agency is the same, but all of them have the same basic responsibilities. Not every officer is the same, but they all require the same basic minimum knowledge and skillset. One requirement is the physical ability to complete the tasks required of a law enforcement professional. That includes effecting an arrest on a non-compliant individual, running up a flight of stairs, or two, or eight, if that is required. Dragging a downed officer to cover. The list goes on. It is such a basic tenement that it difficult at times to understand how a veteran officer might argue that it is not required. Or perhaps, more specifically, argue about who is responsible for making the time and resources available for an officer to “exercise.”
In an interesting plot twist, police departments nationwide are looking for filmmakers. Storytellers. Those who understand how to create not just an image but a connection. So, while there is no shortage of Hollywood screenwriters looking for the next big crime thriller blockbuster, there is a niche market that is harder to fill.
The Police Recruitment Video producer. It is a new genre. Well, kind of. If you are looking for video shorts of cops kicking in doors, blowing stuff up, or dropping out of helicopters, you can find them easily. But does that tell the story of your agency? One might argue that the allure of the action-packed, three-minute police thrill ride could attract the wrong type of person into policing. But, dang, they are cool and fun to watch.
In a new era of policing where the "Militarization" of the police has become a progressive punching bag, police leaders have been struggling to share the story of who they are. Most cops never shoot anyone in the line of duty, but a quick search on YouTube will generate no shortage of action-packed, shoot-em-up videos. So how do we tell the more "realistic" story of what policing in America is today?
In this week's episode, I picked the brain of the best storyteller and screenwriter I know. He may be the only "true" screenwriter I know, but that is beside the point. Jason Doty, an award-winning director and producer, knows what to write, shoot, direct, and produce a police recruitment video. Well, the police storytelling might not have been something he wanted to do, but knowing his talents, I asked a favor a few years ago and put him to work. That was in 2013 when he produced my former agency's first-ever recruiting video.
It would be hard to have predicted how crazy the market for these videos would become, but that is what happens when applications drop, veteran officers retire, and the world turns upside down on policing in general.
If you want to create a police recruiting video, Indiana Film Works might be an excellent place to start. But before you take that step, you need to focus on the most important thing. The message you look to send to your future recruits.
So, listen to this week's episode of the Coptimizer Podcast as Jason and I break down a few popular videos circulating and discuss what it takes to tell a good story!
Cut!
Have you ever wondered who Zeno of Citium, or should I say Cyprus, was. Probably not. If you are a male in your late forties or fifties, the mention of Zeno probably conjures up an image of Xena. Both sound like they begin with “Z” and both had roots in Greece, but the latter was known as the Warrior Princess, and the former, the first Stoic.
If I am going to be honest, as a adolescent, Xena was the probably the only thing that generated much interest in ancient Greece for me. And that is for all set of different reasons that we should probably keep out of conversations on the Coptimizer Podcast. If you don’t know what the hell I am rambling about, then just do a quick google image search for: Xena, Warrior Princess, and you will understand.
While I’m into the pop culture references, I might as well lay down another one. “So - crates.” At least that is how Bill and Ted in their excellent adventure referred to him.
Like sands of the hourglass, so are the days of our lives. #IYKYK
Roman Emporer, Marcus Aurelius, is probably the most popular or well know Stoic, but Socrates was probably the “Godfather.” And now that I am just a few years older, I have come to appreciate the lessons the Stoics have shared us with. As a young Cop, I didn’t put the pieces of the puzzle together. I thought all problems were novel. They were there for me to solve. As an older Cop, I began to understand my hubris. Now, as a retiree, I look back and see that there is not much new under the sun, at least when it comes to human beings, their emotions.
This weeks guest on the Coptimizer Podcast is a different kind of stoic. He is Steve Sweeting, otherwise known as the Street Stoic. A practicing law enforcement officer and author, Steve is also a practicing Stoic. Ancient Philosophy, Modern Policing is the subtitle of his book, and I strongly encourage you to jump on your favorite online retailer, or head to your nearest bookstore, and grab a copy. Read it. Then read it again.
If you want to know why, then start by jumping on this episode and learning about what the ancient stoics knew all the way back in the 3rd century - BCE, that is. After that, jump on Netflix and watch an episode of Xena!
Hard to believe that the NFL Season is just a few weeks away. Netflix is getting us fired up by showing us a peek behind the curtain of the life of Superbowl winning quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. I havn’t watched it yet, but its in the “Q.” If you are not a football fanatic like most of America, then let me take a different angle on why paying attention to Patrick Mahomes might be good for cops.
Patrick Mahones is a Whoop sponsored athlete. Don’t know what Whoop is? Simply put, It is a wearable technology that tracks wellness metrics. Now, before I get too derailed, let’s keep it at this for now. Whoop tracks many things, but one very important metric we should all be paying attention to is Heart Rate Variability (hRV). It is a measurable data point that can tell you if you body is in a state of recovery or if your nervous system is stressed. We have talked about it before on the Coptimizer Podcast.
Whoop partnered with Patrick Mahomes during his season and has published some fascinating data on Mahome’s stress and recovery throughout several NFL seasons, including the playoffs. Training for a Superbowl is big business. Look how much the NFL is worth these days. Athletes are doing everything in their power to be ready for “gameday.” This includes tracking biometric data to ensure they are “recovered” and optimized for when performance counts the most. They are training like their careers depend on it. Look at this one quote from Mahomes personal coach.
Stroupe tries to desensitize Mahomes to “free flow a movement to where it’s more natural and reactive.” Stroupe creates competitive situations in practice with just one rep or set because it forces the mindset that there’s no second or third shot at getting it right. “There’s a neural component to knowing that there’s no take backs” and consistently training like that prepares Mahomes for those moments.
This weeks guest on the Coptimizer Podcast is Stanford Neuroscientist Dr. Melis Balban. She is also one of the founders and CEO of NeuroSmart, a wearable technology company that trains self awareness and self regulation for optimal performance.
Granted, it would suck to get to a superbowl and lose because you did not perform at your best. There may not be any “take backs” during a game, but the worst thing that can happen is you lose. Then, there is always next year, hopefully.
For police officers there are no take backs. And in the worse case scenario’s, there may not be another tomorrow. This is why we need to take a page out of the NFL athlete playbook and start using everything at our disposal to train like professional athletes. To train like there may not be another tomorrow.
Dr. Balban recognizes the challenges that police officers face, not just from the external pressures on doing a very difficult job, but more importantly, the internal processes of human physiology that can impede optimal performance. As the old saying goes, we can be our own worst enemy.
This is why she and her team at NeuroSmart decided to do something about it. They developed a wearable technology that can help police officers train to be at their best. To recognize when they might be losing their edge so they can take active steps to stay on top of their &
Summer is an exciting time of year in the Indianapolis area, so lace up your running shores or start your engines! This week's guest on the Coptimizer Podcast is Noblesville, Indiana, Chief of Police John Mann. Chief Mann completed a career with the Indianapolis Metropolitan PD before taking on the role of Chief in this neighboring city.
Have you ever been a member of a homeowners association? If you have been lucky enough to manage one,
What is the future of policing? What trends do you see coming? Chief Mann has been pondering these questions since long before taking over as a chief. When you listen to this conversation, one thing that will stand out is his love for the profession and his love for his officers and department.
Wellness initiatives are at the forefront of his decision-making process. He has been very deliberate in his approach to ensuring the department provides the resources necessary to support high mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This process, however, is not accomplished in a vacuum. He works in a supportive community with a Mayor and City Council that understand the value of investing in their police officers.
Chief Mann is the epitome of a Cops Cop. What does that mean? Well, take a listen and I think you will understand why he has a high level of internal and external support from his community and his department.
Breach the Barricade!!
You would be correct if this sounds like a battle cry to you. What might surprise you is that the man leading the charge is a Police Chaplain. Not just any Police Chaplain, but a Marine Corp Veteran who has dedicated the latter part of his life to his faith and sharing his journey to help our law enforcement officers survive and thrive in the challenging world of policing. This week's guest on The Coptimizer Podcast is Jim Bontrager. He is high-octane. Anytime a man starts a conversation with quotes from G.K. Chesterton, you know he means business.
"The true warrior fights, not because he hates what's in front of him but because he loves what's behind him."
I am honored to have had some time to talk with Jim and share the conversation with you. You will have to search long and far to find someone caring more about today's law enforcement officers' emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being and their families. Jim works tirelessly with others to support the men and women of law enforcement.
Every year, in my home state of Indiana, Jim and his team host a weekend event in Elkhart, titled, Breaching the Barricade. Here is the event description:
- Open to all law enforcement officers and their families, the 2023 Breaching the Barricade Conference features some of the top speakers in the country. Focusing on leadership, family life, resiliency and service to the community, this conference will bring hope and encouragement to officers and their spouses/significant others that attend. The following day features the 29th Annual Officer Appreciation Day. Knife-tomahawk-spear-battle axe throwing, rifle, pistol, cannon, machine gun, skeet shooting, .50 cal. Ma Deuce, children's games and inflatables, fishing competition, bb gun competition, all the food you can eat.
So, a conference where you get to fire machine guns, throw axes and knives, fish, and otherwise just cut loose in a law enforcement family-friendly environment, who wouldn’t want to go? Well, here is your invitation!
https://rumble.com/v2copwe-2023-fall-le-celebration.html
Jim Bontrager currently serves as a staff chaplain (former Senior Chaplain) with the Elkhart, IN Police Department and is a founder of Warrior on the Wall Ministries. A United States Marine, Jim understands warriors and is firmly convinced that they WILL walk in victory as they look to God for wisdom, strength, and power. Jim speaks at Law Enforcement conferences and retreats and conducts Law Enforcement/ Chaplain training around the country.
He holds his Diplomate Chaplain credentials with the International Conference of Police Chaplains (ICPC) and serves as President-Elect of the Organization (www.icpc4cops.org). He is a certified law enforcement instructor with the State of Indiana and the ICPC. A former national board member with the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers USA, he and his team currently spearhead a 28+ year national outreach to strengthen and encourage law enforcement families.
He is the 2012 recipient of the Wilbert A. Cunningham Award for excellence in law enforcement chaplaincy (IN), a 2013 recipient of an Excellence in Leadership Award from Pointman Leadership Institute, the 2016 recipient of the Richard S. Kassel Award and was appointed a Sagamore of the Wabash by Ind
How would you measure the emotions of working 560 “dead bodies” over your career? Would it be a truckload of emotions? Or, a metric sh#t ton? Any way you define it, it is a lot. When you carry these emotions, as many officers and detectives do, they can wear you down. Eventually, if you don’t offload them, they can kill you like a bullet or blade.
Donna Brown is a retired Sergeant from the Tallahassee Police Department, where she worked for 26 years, 3 months, and 5 days. (Not that she was counting) The five days are symbolic because she was one of the department's five total female officers when she started.
In this episode, Donna shares some of her personal triumphs, tragedies, and lessons learned from working “dead body” cases for over ten years and surviving a career as a pioneering female police officer. In these lessons, she describes her passion for wanting to “humanize” the badge, and from this, the idea of sharing stories in a book was born.
But there is a plot twist; she shares the stories of other officers across Florida and the country. These are not the typical cop “tell all” crime stories but rather the personal stories of the offices themselves. These stories, found in her trilogy of books: Behind and Beyond the Badge, highlight the amazing men and women who carry the responsibilities of policing in America today.
https://amzn.to/3D0Pbqi
Writing can be therapeutic. It can help offload the burdens carried in the heart. Even if it starts in a place of anger, which these books were. Anger that our police officers were not being given a fair shake in the court of public opinion. The media was only sharing negative stories. They were ignoring the self-sacrifice that she had witnessed over her career. So Donna took up her mighty sword (pen and keyboard) and started telling the stories that nobody else was.
I included a link above to Donna’s books. Please pick up a copy and read these stories. As she talks about in this episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, there is plenty to be thankful for in policing, and the future is bright because of the people still believing in a noble cause.
Well, it is not every day you get the opportunity to sit down with a Gubernatorial candidate to discuss the future of policing. So, when opportunity knocks, open the door. In this case, I was grateful that Eric Doden opened his door for me so we could sit down and talk about policing in America, specifically Indiana. I might add, try to say “Gubernatorial” without practice and see what happens. You'll understand once you listen to this week's episode of The Coptimizer Podcast.
Eric Doden grew up in a small town. Not Seymour, like another famous Hoosier, but not unlike it either. Without getting into the nitty gritty of his background, I’ll cover a few things quickly to help set the stage. Eric earned his B.A. in business finance from Hillsdale College and his J.D. degree from Valparaiso School of Law. He and his wife, Maci, and their five children, including their adopted daughter from Rwanda, proudly call Ft. Wayne, Indiana, their home. I mention this because his love for his family, Indiana, and his small-town roots are clear motivators for him to move on from a successful career in business to the challenge of governing an entire state.
One of his priorities will be to restore Main St., not just one of them, but as many as he can. He has had practice; in fact, he co-authored a book about it—the Restoration of Van Wert, Ohio. The subtitle, How Local Leaders Flipped the Script on Downtown Decline, lays the foundation for many of his ideas about how to move Indiana forward.
We jumped in and hit on many important issues facing Indiana, and America. Eric touched on his plans, including creating an infrastructure Capital Zone encompassing the mile square of our state capital city of Indianapolis, and what he hopes to accomplish by doing this. A recurring theme of many different topics was “partnerships,” not just in a policing sense, but in providing resources that are the foundation of community health and prosperity.
Some specific policing subjects we touched on were his support for maintaining the protections of Qualified Immunity for police officers. Also, developing new prosecutorial tools to remove violent criminals from our streets, and providing adequate resources for training, equipping, and maintaining a professional police workforce.
It was a fast episode and we touched on many things that police officers in Indiana, and others, will want to hear. I left the interview with a much better idea about who Eric Doden is, and what type of positive impact he could provide Hoosiers if elected Governor! I think you will as well!
Retired 30 yr. LE Executive, Public Speaker, Law Enforcement Advocate, Media Consultant. Inspiring future generations of LEO's, LE leaders and supporters of LE.
If you are listening to this podcast, you probably don’t need any convincing that developing a sound mindfulness practice is smart, practical, and even, dare I say, essential. But, maybe you are here for different reasons and have stumbled onto something. Either way, you are in for an eye-opening discussion on the power of the human spirit.
This week's guest is Suzanna Hasnay of PoliceSpirit. She is a retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent with over twenty years of law enforcement experience. But she is cut from a different cloth, not your stereotypical agent with a background in accounting, law, or prior policing experience. She is a dancer. Yes, I said dancer, but even more impressive, a ballerina background.
If you are wondering how a dancer with a background in exercise science and kinesiology wound up working as a Special Agent with the FBI, you’ll just have to tune in and listen. Suzanna has an impressive resume, from working in counterterrorism, crisis management, leadership, and officer resilience training, to becoming a lead instructor in the FBI CIRG Peak Performance Program. She has trained FBI SWAT Teams on mindfulness-based practices for optimal performance and Yoga for the famed hostage rescue team.
At the center of everything she teaches is balance. It is a lesson even a ballerina turned FBI Special Agent, a mountain climber, and a mindfulness coach has to learn. We are all susceptible to stress and overwork. After all, you can’t pirouette without balance.
This is a high-energy episode. Suzanna's lessons and experience to law enforcement is rivaled only by her passion and spirit for helping others.
If you ask any citizen if police officers should be required to maintain a level of physical fitness that ensures they can perform the varied task they will encounter in the line of duty, what do you think they will say? I’ve done this. While my story is an N of 1, I’m confident you will have the same results. The answer will be, simply, yes.
Every police academy requires officers to complete and pass a physical fitness evaluation to graduate from their academy. Most assume this standard carries over into their respective police departments. This is where the story gets, let’s call it, interesting. The little-known truth is that only two percent of police departments in the United States have mandated, job qualifying, annual physical fitness testing requirements.
First, let’s start with the standards. What are they? Well, the short answer is there are none. At least, there is not a baseline national standard. There are many really good tests out there, but from state to state, while they are all similar, they are not the same.
Most of these standards are based on guidelines from the Cooper Institute. But the Cooper Institute will tell you that they are not a “policy-making” organization, so they can’t get into the business of telling agencies what their standards should be. If you are a Chief or someone involved in the policy-making for physical fitness standards for your agency, you should read this paragraph again. Why? Because if your expecting to have the Cooper Institute support your policies regarding fitness testing, you might have a problem.
This week’s guest is retired Chief of Police, Jeffrey Scott, from the Buckeye state! We talk about fitness standards and more on this episode. We met after an interesting news story emergency from Hamilton County, Ohio. A police agency was quoted publicly taking a position that new recruit officers should not be required to pass a physical fitness test to graduate from the law enforcement academy.
For the love of all things Coptimizer related!!! How fast and how far might policing fall if we start abandoning standards. In fact, this chat segued perfectly into this very topic as the Memphis PD use of force case was in the news as well.
Are we sometimes our own worst enemies in policing? Tune in and find out!
Owner at Ketofiveo.com and Cops and Campers. Retired Wounded Police Officer, Sports Nutritionist and Personal Trainer, Full Time Traveling and Homeschooling RV Family, Heart Disease and PTSD Survivor and Keto/Carnivore Expert.
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. - Lao Tzu
This is a philosophical musing that I visit from time to time. Life can take many forms and lead us in unexpected directions. Regardless, any goal, any journey, requires a first step.
The contrarian in me also counters this musing with another one. Begin with the end in mind. This is Stephen Covey’s second habit of his famed “Seven” habits book for “Highly Effective Leaders.” Covey posited that every goal is created two times. The first is when it is born in thought, and the second is when the physical act to bring the idea to fruition begins. Therefore, imagination starts the process, and action closes the deal.
Okay, what is the point? The point is we all start somewhere. At any point in life, we can pivot and change directions. Within our control is the ability to decide. When faced with adversity, opportunity, hope, or despair, we all have a choice in how we respond. Will we rise up or fold?
This week’s guest on the Coptimizer Podcast is Chief (Ret.) Diane Stuart. She is the epitome of goal-oriented beliefs and behaviors. If you are a police officer and a CrossFitter, this name probably sounds familiar. It does because she was a two-time podium finisher at the CrossFit Games in her master's division. If that does not sound impressive enough, let me provide some clarification. She was in the Top 3 fittest women, in the world, in her age group. How about them apples?
Did I mention that Diane accomplished this feat while working as a police chief? After a storied career at the San Jose (CA) Police Department, where she retired as Assistant Chief, she led the Heyward Police Department as Chief. But her story is more than just policing and fitness. Her story is about goal setting, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of hard work.
Her policing career in San Jose years after doing ride-a-longs with her dad, a police officer at the Los Angeles Police Department. In 1989 she earned her way as the first woman on the SWAT Team and subsequently worked a large part of her career in special operations. I’ll let you hear her story about making it through Sniper School!
But tales of drive and determination are usually accompanied by overwork stress. Diane talks about her battle with cancer and injury and why leading by example when prioritizing health and fitness is important. In a world of people who find excuses or reasons not to try, not to begin, her journey is an example that the only thing stopping us from reaching our potential is our limiting beliefs.
You can choose to take the first step. Diane’s is an example worth following. Let the journey begin!
Are you looking for simple answers to complex problems? This might be a universal truth to many issues, but in policing, it is evident that the expectations concerning results are conflicting. For example, when crime goes up, communities look to the police to solve the issue. However, simply making more arrests may or may not change outcomes. There are too many different inputs.
Does this sound confusing? Well, it is. Here is a little example provided by this week's guest on the Coptimizer Podcast, Dwayne Orrick. In one state, seven diversion efforts were made to correct offender behavior before an offender was sent to prison for the first time. Is this a policing problem? Because it sounds to me like the police are doing their job if they have arrested someone seven times. This sounds more like a legislative and/or judicial problem, more than an executive issue. Where is the public accountability for them? We hear statements like, “We can’t arrest our way out of the opioid epidemic, so we must focus on rehabilitation rather than incarceration.” This is a noble idea, and it should be considered in solution-based legislation, but rarely are words like this followed up with planning and action to follow through. This leaves the police holding the bag. Why? Because this is the end of the conveyor belt. The courtrooms are not open at two o’clock in the morning when someone has just been arrested for the seventh time. The system is built on mutual and shared responsibility and accountability. It won’t work if all three branches of government are not aligned.
“Statements without evidence are just opinions.”
Dwayne Orrick is the Assistant Executive Director at the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police. With thirty-eight years of progressively responsible law enforcement and public safety experience, Dwayne has concentrated on organizational and staff development, budgeting, creative problem-solving, and building partnerships in diverse communities. He has specific expertise in organizational assessment and development; recruitment, selection, and retention; training; leadership development; creating a positive and ethical organizational environment; policy development, and conflict resolution.
This experience led to a great discussion that shines a light on many of the issues facing policing today, and, more importantly, some fundamental truths that can help keep leaders grounded on what is essential to improve the profession moving forward.
Break out your calculator, or open up the calculator application on your phone instead, because we will do some basic math about investment in policing. Some calculations include the costs to agencies and communities when officers leave the profession. If it takes $250k to train officers in their first three years, but they leave policing or your agency, how will you recover those costs? What is the investment cost to your community when people and businesses leave because they no longer feel safe?
So many problems to solve and so little investment to do it with. Hop on the call and listen to this conversation. Dwayne shares wisdom from nearly forty years in policing that you will not want to miss! Enjoy!
If you have spent any time working in law enforcement, you realize that every day brings something new. At least, it seems like that. Then, after a while, you realize that things really are not all that different. The faces, the addresses, and the underlying themes are similar. The problems of society are like a scratch in a vinyl record. Once that needle gets caught, that painful process begins and repeats itself over and over and over. The needle will stay stuck until something intervenes.
For those of you who have taken fewer trips around the sun, a record is something we listened to before there were Spotify, iTunes, CDs, cassettes, and 8-track tapes. The new version of the old phonograph, the LP, the long-play vinyl record! It was, and still is, one of the coolest ways to listen to music. But I digress.
When the LP skips, a little bump of the needle can get it unstuck. The music plays on. In police work, a scratch in an officer's psyche might not be so simple. It can linger. Some cuts in the vinyl run deeper than others.
This week's guest on the Coptimizer Podcast is Jonathan Hickory. His story needs to be told so others can learn from it. In fact, Jonathan realized he could help others by sharing his story, so he wrote a book about it. Then, when the story struck the right cord, it became a movie. Not every cop has a movie told about their life, especially one that stars Superman.
If you stop now, you might be thinking this is the story of the hero’s journey. The good cop takes on the bad guys and maybe wins in the end in an epic Hollywood gun battle scene. And you would only be partially correct. It is a story about a good cop. But his battle is not against the bad guys, it is a battle against his own demons. This is the story that Hollywood rarely tells even though it is the most common battle cops fight every day across America.
In fact, stories like Jonathans inspire the reason for the Coptimizer concept. How do we face the day-to-day trauma and despair that policing will bring and remain happy, hopeful, and healthy? We start by knowing and believing that it is achievable. Despair is not inevitable, but it can chip away at your soul if you don’t protect yourself against it. We can’t bury our heads in the sand, or worse, a bottle of alcohol or pills, and pretend it is not a tough job. Instead, we can prepare our officers for what they will face and give them the resources to survive and thrive.
Resilience is a choice. We can build it or destroy it by the little decisions we make every day. The prefrontal cortex is an amazing gift of nature. It gives us the option to learn from the mistakes of others instead of making them all ourselves. Through Jonathan’s story, we can see the power of resilience and make ourselves, our agencies, and communities better by learning from his battles.
Enjoy this episode. Once you hear Jonathan’s story, go a step further and buy a copy of his book and then watch the movie, Break Every Chain. Then, share it with all of your police friends.
Are you lucky or good? The more important question is, can you tell the difference? For this week's guest, officer safety was something not left to chance. Mike Malpass is not the kind of man you want to tangle with in a dark alley, not in a physical battle, nor a battle of wits. Now retired, Mike spent his policing career honing his skills as a Patrol Officer with the Phoenix, AZ, Police Department before transitioning to SWAT, then capping his career by teaching defensive tactics in their Academy.
What do you do with all of that knowledge and skill? How about writing a book or two? Mike Malpass is the author of two books. His first, Taming the Serpent, takes a deep dive into neuroscience and what can be learned to revolutionize modern law enforcement training. In this book, Mike leans into one of the most vexing issues in policing. How can we close the gap between how officers are trained and how the brain processes information under stress? What we are doing today is insufficient to meet the public's expectations demanding better outcomes. He provides concrete suggestions, backed by research, about improving training for better decision-making and performance under life-threatening stress and pressure.
Mike should know. He was tested in lethal force encounters on the job and spent his time outside of work training as a professional fighter.
His second and recent book, Fall Seven Rise Eight; A Kaizen Approach to Law Enforcement and Life, is a fascinating journey of how the brain works and what we can learn from the Kaizen philosophy on preparation. A take from his book's back cover: The human brain is predictive. It constantly predicts what is happening in your external world by comparing what is happening inside your body to external data coming through your senses. These predictions are the brain’s best guess about what is happening, what to do about it, and a probabilistic evaluation of the likelihood of success based on your relevant past experiences.
I can’t even tell you how much I enjoyed this conversation! We touched on many relevant law enforcement training topics, from the Use of Force to Implicit Bias, Nature vs. Nurture, and the list goes on and on. If you are curious about what Hippies can teach us about how the brain works and why slamming Red Bulls before training might not be a good idea, then tune into this week's show and enjoy. I know I sure did!
Geoffrey Chaucer, the author of the Canterbury Tales, wrote, “Time and tide wait for no man.” And if I’m being honest, reading Chaucer in my English Literature class back in college was a painful experience. Like many things in my youth, the lessons were lost on me until I was ready to receive them or until they bludgeoned me over the head. Again, most lessons I learned were from the latter. My dad used to tell me, “Youth is squandered on the young.” Now, in my 50’s, I get it. At least, I think I do. Time will tell.
This week's guest on the Coptimizer Podcast is not a cop. He is a retired marine and retired United States Postal Service employee. That is what I call a “two for.” Two careers in the same person, with one important lesson. Time waits for no one.
Joe Rivera is the epitome of a man who refuses to give up or give in. Every day is another opportunity to grind and get better. To compete. To live.
Early in my career, a salty veteran told me, “You just wait. One day you will be as fat, unhappy, and miserable as the rest of us.” He was about fifty pounds overweight, a smoker, and generally an unproductive and bitter cop. To this day, I frequently thank him for the invaluable gift he gave me. He gave me a glimpse into my future should I choose his path.
But life always provides choices. And since I’m already quoting old dead guys, I will stick with the theme. “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – took the one less traveled by, and that has made all of the difference.” Robert Frost was referring to the road not taken. He meant that some choices, at the moment, seem inconsequential, but over time and with the luxury of hindsight, we can look back and see which decisions have had the biggest impact.
Joe Rivera is a living example of taking the road less traveled. He chooses hard work and challenges so he can stay healthy and productive. In this episode, you can hear Joe’s story, about overcoming obstacles early in life and how he built resiliency. Now, at age 55, he is the number one ranked male in the world in his age group in the Spartan Deka racing series. Not just in one of the three categories, but ALL three.
The path of comfort is very enticing, like the siren’s call. Many succumb because the path is well-worn and easy to follow. Now that I am retired and on the “back-nine,” I am thankful to have chosen the path taken by men and women like Joe instead of the salty veteran. While life offers no guarantees, my retirement from policing is not the end for me but another fork in the road. I’m choosing to chase Joe on the leaderboard, and I’m thankful he is there. People like Joe remind us of what is possible and that our only limits are generally those we place on ourselves.
Lace-up your racing shoes, this is a high-energy episode!
Transformation: A thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance. This is the vision of the University of Kentucky Chief of Police Joe Monroe. Transform Law Enforcement. Since the summer of 2020, we have heard the call to “Reimagine” policing. From coast to coast, citizens of this great country have called for changes in how police operate. But what does that mean?
This is not a novel or fad idea or endeavor for Chief Monroe. In fact, he has been running one of the best-kept secrets, in terms of policing leadership conferences, for a decade now. The Transform Law Enforcement Conference was an idea he developed when he became concerned about the lack of creativity and flexibility in policing. The times were changing, and we were slow to adapt.
Chief Monroe didn’t get discouraged, he got to work, doing what he does best, partnering with his community and others to move the needle in a positive direction in policing. His first stop is one that anyone in law enforcement is familiar with, Galls, one of the most recognized brands in police and first responder equipment and uniform supply. In their corporate conference room, Chief Monroe assembled law enforcement leaders and educators and began to challenge the future leaders about what policing could be.
Kentucky is known for its beautiful horse country, bourbon, and basketball. Now, in the policing world, it is known for the Transform Law Enforcement Conference. I have been honored and privileged to be part of this conference since 2017, so I am happy to share this story.
So join us in this special, on-site interview with Chief Joe Monroe and get the flavor of what he has been working on in the Bluegrass state!
The theme of this show is Cop Optimization. And it starts from within. Sure, agencies need to provide the appropriate support to create a thriving police department. But it all begins with what they have to work with. Resources and People.
How do you build, train, and prepare people to compete in a profession wrought with despair? Not necessarily our own despair but that of those we are sworn to serve and protect. Afterall, not too often are we called to the scene of childs birthday party that is going perfectly, just to share in a piece of cake. Nope - you know what I’m talking about.
The answer is simple. We coach them up. How - with a coach!
In policing, we have a long history of training groups. We are building teams. We are building strong organizational cultures that create momentum to move the mass toward desired outcomes. We feed and nourish the culture. In biological terms, this process is called endocytosis, where cells throughout the body ingest nutrients, fluids, proteins, and other molecules for growth and optimization. When it is all working well, we flourish.
But what happens when the individual's cells begin acting up? When something gets out of balance, and the cells begin to malfunction, diseases like muscular dystrophy, Alzheimer’s, and other maladies can befall us. Nature struggles to find balance, and in the struggle is where growth happens or falters.
It is in our best interest to fight for balance.
Greg Zaroslinski is among the most sought-after coaches in the Performance Protocol stable of coaches. This is not by accident. Greg knows the struggle for balance intimately, and thankfully, he has dedicated his life to sharing these lessons.
Lesson one: You can be professionally successful but still not be in balance. One day you are on top of the world, and the next, you are not. It only takes one moment, or in the world of policing, one call to upend everything. How we prepare ourselves can be the difference between success and trouble.
So, take some time to listen to Greg tell his story, and you will quickly understand why others seek him out. One of my favorite lines from this episode: Delusion is not the solution. A conversation about how self-care and self-management are often misunderstood but why it is so important.
Greg has a challenge for all of you. If today you were provided the opportunity to win a million dollar prize, all you had to do was go get it, would you? What’s the catch? No catch, just a million bucks sitting in a mailbox at the end of a thirty mile run. You have a few hours to get there before it disappears. Can you make it there in time?
Sometimes Cops can’t say what they really want, and need, to say. Thankfully we have writers like Kathleen Dias who can be their voice. Particularly when it comes to underrepresented, rural, police populations.
Not every police officer works in a large metropolitan police department. If fact, most don’t. Most work in agencies that have few than 30 officers. They work in remote areas where backup might be an hour away. When they get to a scene of a crime, there is no CSI unit to call to come document the scene and collect evidence, it’s on them. There is no crisis negotiator, SWAT response, or you name it, the list goes on. There is only the officer, their training, their guts, and GRIT.
Policing is a human endeavor. It always has been, and always will be. There is no piece of technology or equipment that will replace a well-trained, competent, and empathetic officer. We would all be wise to remember this as talk of “Reform” is in the air. It has been a constant drumbeat in the popular mainstream media.
But, what does “reform” even mean? Ask a stranger on any street corner and you will likely get a blank stare, or worse, the “D” word. What is the “D” word, well, that would be “Defunding.” I would argue that most of us in the police would “D”isagree….
On this week’s episode of the Coptimizer Podcast, I had a great conversation with police writer, Kathleen Dias. We talked a lot about the challenges facing rural police departments in addition to our conversation about what police reform really should look like. She wrote a piece for Police1 magazine that laid the foundation for what real reform should look like.
It means more police officers, not fewer. It means more funding for training, not less. It means modernizing equipment and investing, not cutting budgets. It means supporting injured cops, and investing in programs that build resiliency, not kicking them to the curb after society wrings every drop of compassion and care out of them. It means paying them a salary and providing medical benefits, and a retirement that is above poverty levels, not cutting pensions and penny-pinching at their expense. But most importantly, real reform starts with communities getting realistic about what cops can actually change, and not change, about societal issues that get kicked around by everyone until they land at the feed of your local officers.
Buckle up and enjoy!
"It is no measure of health to be well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society."- Jiddu Krishnamurti
Did you know the mental health of police officers can be corrupted by policing? Get ready for some Truth Bombs! Chief of Police, Dr. Luara King, doesn’t hold any punches when it comes to talking about officer safety and wellness. For her, it is personal. Not just because she experienced firsthand the damage that stress can cause to the health of police officers but also because of the stress and impact it can have on families and relationships.
Negative sentiment override - where all of the dark things in the world are witnessed daily by our police officers. Sooner or later, it will take its toll without the right outlets. The rates of depression and addiction, not just in society but in policing, are part of the unraveling we are witnessing.
Emotional detachment is an effective coping mechanism in a police officer's toolbox, but you must leave that tool at work. Chief King will tell you that when you bring that tool home with you, it just makes you an “asshole.” While I chuckled over this comment, it is funny because it is true.
These are all observations made by Chief King during our discussion, but the most profound thing she said was this; This is personal to me because police work broke my dad. This was a very raw and candid admission. She described how early childhood memories of her dad were happy times filled with fun vacations and activities they shared. But, right before her eyes, that man quietly faded away. As his career progressed, the shift work, the stress, the accumulation of the events of work gradually changed him to the point where he was no longer the same man.
When Laura followed in his footsteps, she was adamant she would not suffer the same fate as her father, but despite her efforts, it caught up with her.
This episode is a must-listen for any officer or leader who wants to understand stress's cumulative effects on human physiology. The power of understanding is that it opens up opportunities to make course corrections. We don’t have to crash and burn before we realize something needs to change. There are mechanisms available to us today that will provide guard rails. It is time for us to educate ourselves and our partners, and Dr. Laura King, is a great place to start!
A self-motivated, highly dependable law enforcement executive with more than two decades of experience in police administration and management, Chief King continues to work for positive change, seeks the opportunity to serve and support law enforcement professionals as an executive-level coach. Her tremendous experience is helping to work with individuals in all stages of their profession and working with clients to build consensus, create action plans and drive outstanding results.
This episode of the Coptimizer Podcast features Inspector (Retired) Greg Sheehan of the New York City Police Department. But I will start with a quote from another Greg, Greg Glassman, the founder of CrossFit, Inc. - “Our understanding is that the needs of Olympic athletes and our grandparents differ by degree, not kind.” So, while we did not talk about Fitness much on this Podcast, we did focus on Training. The relevance of the quote from Glassman is this, the training needs for the NYPD, the largest police department in the world, are the same as the smallest police department.
Whether your agency has twenty-thousand sworn officers, or twenty, if a citizen calls in an active threat, the community will expect a prompt and professional police response. Therefore, the training needs of our police officers across the country, no matter where they work, are relatively the same. The ability to scale and train in a timely manner is the challenge.
If you have ever been responsible for coordinating training, you understand what a challenging task it can be to ensure that every single officer has been trained on every single topic that is required and that is properly documented and professionally completed. Now, imagine for a minute you have thirty-five thousand sown officers accountable to hundreds of policy and training topics. If your head has not started to swim a little, you are not really thinking about the scale of this task.
Now, consider this, how much would it cost? In an era when some groups of uninformed members of the public are demanding the de-funding of the police, think about the ramifications this would have on training. This is an impossible task in a small department, let alone in the largest in the world. Now, this is my opinion, but we touched on this and many other training-oriented challenges facing policing.
Greg Sheehan retired after twenty-seven years with the NYPD where he served in many capacities. His work legacy was broad, and he impacted a range of successful initiatives, such as positively developing subordinate talent and collaborating with many different stakeholders.
With the dedication and professionalism of his patrol partners and many other colleagues over the years, he was awarded numerous times with Department commendations, including four Unit Citations and ten instances of distinguished police service. #FidelisAdMortem
These days Greg is still impacting public safety. He is currently working as Team Leader for Government Solutions and Cisco Certified Renewals Manager at Vector Solutions, the leading provider of award-winning, intelligent SaaS solutions that help organizations operate at the highest level and prepare for more challenging workplaces and environments. Additionally, he has found success as both a law enforcement leadership and professional development coach and virtual reality (VR) training consultant, opportunities that have allowed me to inspire human performance gains while developing scalable solutions to today’s toughest law enforcement training problems.
Major Randall Anderson began his law enforcement career with Palm Beach Gardens Police in 2003. We all take different paths to policing, but not all of us begin with being arrested! Remember, we were all young once! As a seventeen-year-old who made a few questionable decisions, the experience was impactful for Randall because he was fortunate to have been exposed to a police officer who made a positive impact on him.
We all make mistakes, the difference is what we do with them. Randall took the opportunity provided to him by a judge that knew the right place for a young man with a penchant for fighting might be a Police Athletic League boxing gym. This led to exposure to a different side of police officers he never knew existed. He knew from there what he was going to do with his life.
These experiences as a young man helped Randy be a more understanding and empathetic adult. When he became a police officer he was able to lean back on these experiences, particularly when working with young people he came into contact with on the job.
We talk about a lot of things, but at the core of our discussion is how we manage difficult times. Things like divorce, critical incidents, and other on and off-the-job situations. When Randy experienced a difficult time in his life in the aftermath of a police action shooting, Randy was directed by a supervisor to work with a coach. Here he learned techniques that helped him manage himself as he navigated this period of his life.
Randy is now an advocate for understanding and developing peak performance. He has used coaching and resources to help his department and the officers he works with. He took his personal journey and created opportunities to learn and teach others.
Major Anderson had traversed a similar path as many officers. Early in his career he held various positions as a patrol officer, field training officer, and firearms instructor and was also a member of the SWAT Team. He was later assigned to the Palm Beach Gardens Tactical Crime Unit and was dually assigned to the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force. He worked extensively in the Investigations division, holding multiple positions, before being promoted through the ranks of Sergeant and Captain. Now manages the Patrol Division as a Major for his agency.
Tune in and learn about what Randall has been doing at his agency and how you can learn and build for your well-being and agency.
Are you tough enough? Do you have the strength to power through a career in policing? The physical is a big part of the equation, but the mind is bigger. That's why we spent some time talking with Andy Riise on this episode of the Coptimizer Podcast.
Andy is a Mental Toughness Coach. He has forged his career in the toughest environments there are to offer. From West Point to the battlefields, to the arena. Coach Riise has been working at the pinnacle of military operations and professional sports, so I was really appreciative of him spending some of his valuable time with us to share his wisdom with police officers.
Toughness is often misunderstood. Sure, it can be measured by physical prowess, but it is often tested in more sublime ways. It starts on the inside. In this episode Coach Riise breaks down what he calls the Four C's - Control, Commitment, Challenge, and Confidence.
We also spent some time talking about a book he co-authored and was the senior editor of. Deliberate Discomfort: How U.S. Special Forces Operations Forces Overcome Fear and Dare to Win by Getting Comfortable Being Uncomfortable. The title of the book captures the essence of the stories held within. It is a journey filled with discomfort, not only for those whose lives and stories are depicted but for the reader who wants to know how to get more from themselves. The lessons of GRIT and Resilience contained within are awe-inspiring
Whether you think you need to toughen up a little, a lot, or not at all, there is something in this episode everyone.
If you work in law enforcement, know someone in law enforcement, or love someone in law enforcement, then this episode is a “must listen” to. Allen Hendrickson is an “ordinary” police officer with an “extraordinary” story. But the thing is, there are no “ordinary” cops. They all have someone unique and special about them, and Allen is no different. Or, is he?
What you are probably preparing yourself to listen to is a story about how the police officer saved the day. Well, there is a twist to this one. This is a story about how a police officer saved himself from himself.
Allen has been involved in some traumatic circumstances, including an officer-involved shooting. But his story of stress and trauma starts long before that. The shooting is just one part of the story.
Allen started in law enforcement at twenty years of age working in the jail. Within a few years, he transitioned to road deputy and then in a short period, into narcotics, where he worked as an undercover detective. As a young narcotics officer, he worked deep cover operations where he was away from home for weeks at a time. He started “living” the undercover life, and the lines between work and personal became blurred.
We have talked about how sometimes the job of policing is efficient at breaking good people. The stress, uncertainty, and even excitement can be addicting and destructive. There is a cost to be paid, and Allen paid this price. But this story is not a story of personal tragedy; it is a powerful story of resilience and love.
Allen’s problems began when he started drinking too much in his role as an undercover officer. This led to addiction and risky behaviors, including adultery. His personal life unraveled and he was divorced from his wife. Ultimately, he lost his job. But he found the strength to work on himself and ultimately overcame his demons, and remarried his wife.
In this episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, Allen tells us about what went wrong in his life. His decisions led to trouble, and ultimately, being accountable to himself and others led him out of the darkness and into the light. He shares his story so others can learn from his mistakes and avoid the pitfalls that derailed his career. Allen now dedicates much of his time to helping others through Peer Support and Coaching, and he wants to share his story so others can succeed where he struggled.
Michael Erwin co-authors two books, Lead Yourself First, and Leadership is a Relationship. He is a graduate of West Point and the founder of the veteran's organization, Team Red White, and Blue. If that wasn’t enough, he is the president of The Positivity Project and the CEO of his company, the Character and Leadership Center. Yes, I confirmed it, he is only one person.
In this episode, we cover a lot of ground, but I think it is important to note where it all started. Michael is the child of two police officer parents, both of who worked for the Syracuse, New York, Police Department. His mother was the first female officer in the Department, and his dad was a detective. He understands what it is like to grow up in a household where your name is purposely kept out of the phonebook, for those of you who remember what one of those is.
Lead Yourself First was co-authored with Raymond Kethledge. The subtitle of the book, Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude, frames the important lessons that lie without this work. They are timeless and will benefit all leaders in policing. Stories from T.E. Lawrence, to Pope John Paul II, and Martin Luther King Jr., to Ulyses S. Grant and Dwight Eisenhower, and more, emphasis the importance of carving out time to think. To sit in solitude.
Of all fo the great examples provided in the book, the one that resonated the most with me might surprise you. That is the story of Jane Goodall! Why you ask? Well, have you ever felt like, each day at work, you were walking into the jungle? A place filled with unknown and exotic dangers and a thousand ways to might just kill you? It might not seem like a place to learn to “chill,” but that is what she did. And, as a result of her courage and persistence, she changed the world.
Listen in, learn the lesson of solitude, and enjoy!
Chris Grollnek is one of the country's leading experts on active shooter response. But if you asked him at age fourteen where he thought his future was heading, you would probably get a much different answer. Forrest Gump tells us that life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you will get. In Chris' case, nothing could be more accurate.
The United States Marine Corps has a way of ironing out wrinkles, not just in uniforms but in life itself. Discipline and hard work is the hallmark of their identity. Chris is another example of what is possible when you partner discipline with direction and then attach it to a purpose greater than oneself. Unfortunately, we need experts like Chris, but we are fortunate to have someone so dedicated to making a difference in saving lives—the lives of our most precious resource, our children. From a runaway at age fourteen to the U.S.M.C., to policing, his life has been an adventure.
From Columbine to Virginia Tech, Fort Hood, Sandy Hook, Pulse, Parkland, and Uvalde, the lessons of our failures as a society and first responders are written in the blood of innocents. We have learned, evolved, and made strides, but we have also failed, forgotten, and in the worst cases, refused to accept what we know to be true.
After over twenty years, we still struggle to reach a consensus on how best to prepare, train, and, most importantly, prevent these horrific acts of violence.
In this episode of the Coptimizer Podcast, Chris Grollnek walks us through his key takeaways from years of studying active shooter events. But he also tells us where it all started with him, the day he responded to an active shooter at his police department. This vital episode sheds some valuable insights into what we should think about as first responders. The hard truth is these events are not going away. They are accelerating in frequency and destruction. The old quote warns us that; "The best time to start was yesterday; the next best time is now."
I want to thank Tod Langley and Crisis Response Leader Training for hosting this on-location podcast recording. It was a humbling and introspecting afternoon of learning from the world's leading experts on Active Shooter Response.
John Beck is a professional coach. After eighteen years in corporate America in a Fortune 500 Company, John sought his next challenge. His next venture was very successful, and while the money was great and the business was a financial success, one of the greatest joys he experienced in growing this business was building his teams. Helping individuals reach their potential!
Coaching the individual may not be new, but it is, in a way, to policing. Trainers in policing are very good at teaching technical and tactical skills relevant to job tasks. But what about teaching individual officers how to look inward to develop themselves in a way that will maximize their overall potential?
This is the job of the professional coach.
John walks us through examples of how some of the highest-level, most successful business leaders benefited from coaching. It starts with understanding this simple question. How are you showing up?
Join us in the episode as we have a conversation about how coaching can drive performance in policing. Hear how John talks about what might be holding you back from your peak potential. Fear. Not the fear of the physical risks that policing presents but the fear of making bad decisions, or worse yet, the fear of what others might think of you.
Fear never goes away, but there is a way to minimize and understand what generates it. Coaching the individual officer will create the space where they can open up and face their challenges. This requires safe spaces that officers will trust so they can open up without fear of repercussions.
How do we bring the principles of biomechanics and biomedical literacy to the modern police workforce? That is a mouthful of big words, but it is the future. Improving our knowledge and understanding of research in emerging digital health fields is the new frontier in human performance. It fits with a theme for our show. If it works for the world's highest performers in athletics and boardrooms, it will work in the squad room!
Tune in to this episode with Dr. Katherine Plewa as she breaks down this high-technology research to help us answer some fundamental questions. Can we use digital sensors to help improve outcomes in officer safety and wellness? Can they be used to improve fitness? Health? Stress Management?
The short answer is yes, absolutely! The long answer, well, you will just have to listen to get a cursory introduction into this exciting field of research to learn a little about how it make be used moving forward. With the best technology and a commitment to invest in our police technology and training, we can improve the policing profession. Defunding is not the answer.
Dr. Katherine Plewa is a researcher and consultant working in digital health. With 7 years of research and 10 years of clinical experience, she is a diagnostics and biometrics expert working across healthcare, pharmacy, fitness, and industry to improve human and organizational performance. Her research has focused on improving health and safety standards in sports and the workplace, as well as improving health outcomes through remote patient monitoring and rehabilitation programs.
She is also the founder of a leading stress research firm that works with organizations to proactively address stress in the workplace to make people healthier, safer, and more productive in the workplace.
Over the years, she has worked with various groups of people including high performing athletes, law enforcement officers, military personnel, veterans, as well as patients with neurological disorders. She is passionate about human health and optimization and loves to explore the blend of new and old technologies and techniques to help people adapt to stress and unlock new levels of performance.
Eric Miner is the Chief of Staff for Performance Protocol. (www.performance-protocol.com) But long before that, he was a kid growing up in Orange County, California, with dreams of being a police officer. He made the dream become a reality in an action packed career with the Phoenix, AZ, Police Department.
Eric’s career spanned over twenty years with assignments ranging from Patrol to SWAT, which was a full-time assignment in one of the nation's largest police departments, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant. In this episode Eric shares his experiences from a career where he spent most of his time working with and supervising patrol officers.
Most police officers will never fire their duty weapons. Despite what we see on television, it is rare when an officer is involved in a police action shooting. In the rare instances when it does happen, you need someone who is well prepared, not just for the action itself, but for the emotional roller coaster that ensues.
Eric is the exception, in more ways than one. He was involved in not just one officer involved shooting, but three. This is an episode that highlights the necessity of properly preparing officers for the challenges they will face in a policing career. His is a story of resilience.
The lessons shared on this episode of the Coptimizer Podcast are most certainly universal. It doesn’t matter where you reside in your organization today, Eric shares insights from his career and experiences that will benefit any listeners. And it all starts with love. Yes, you read that right, love!
Listen to Eric explain his philosophy that Leadership is Love! The opposite of FEAR, is LOVE!. Core values always rise to the top over the span of a career and balance is the key. Learn how Eric sets the table for expectations for a career utilizing the key components of confidence. Confidence in training, job knowledge, decision making under duress, in leadership, and most importantly, community. It all comes together in this impactful and insightful episode.
The Law Enforcement community needs to understand what their cardiometabolic risk factors are. This is a big word, but even a bigger problem, so it is time to take a few minutes to listen and understand not just the problem, but more importantly, what you can do about it.
Matt Martin is one of the founders of Precision Health Reports, a company focused on providing the earliest detection of an individual’s risk for developing type 2 diabetes, stroke, or heart attack. Matt is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point followed by an 8 ½ year tenure as an Army Infantry Officer serving both stateside, in Bosnia, and during the 05-06 Iraq surge.
After leaving the military, Matt spent 11 years at an early-stage and fast growing digital health company, TrialCard, that was solely focused on allowing patients to access and afford the medications that they needed. While serving in operational, sales, marketing, strategy, and corporate leadership roles as the company continued to rapidly grow, he dived deep into using technology to solve complex challenges to help people live healthier.
However, while doing so much growth professionally, like many of us he also ‘grew’ personally becoming overweight, unhealthy, and likely pre-diabetic. After a beloved (and thought to be healthy) family member died of an unexpected heart attack, Matt was able to take control of his own health and regain a healthy lifestyle. This also led to meeting the other cofounder of Precision Health Reports, Dr. Bill Cromwell, arguably the best expert physician in the US for early detection and prevention of cardiometabolic disease (diabetes, stroke, and heart attacks). Together, they created Precision Health Reports.
In this episode, Matt and I discuss our personal journeys to finding the path to understanding risks, but more importantly, finding a key metabolic test that can save your life, literally. If you have not asked yourself how you want the back half of your life to look like, now is the time.
First there, that others may live! This is the motto of the United States Air Force Special Operations. Maybe the “quietest” of the Quiet Professionals, Air Force Pararescue and Combat Controllers are the ultimate force multipliers. But how does one go from being an Electrical Engineer at one of the most prestigious engineering universities in the world to Combat Control? And, as if that was not enough, then wind up with the FBI Hostage Rescue Team, the most elite law enforcement special operations unit in the world? These are my words, not his, but John Dunn did just that. In this episode retired Supervisory Special Agent, John Dunn, talks about this unique path that led him from Purdue University, to the 24th Special Tactics Squadron, to FBI SWAT and the Hostage Rescue Team.
There are many roads to success, and failure is always part of the process, but when you have a desire to do something great and the dedication to do the work necessary for success, anything is possible. Sometimes, the hardest things are the simplest things. Never Quit.
John Dunn talks about being in the bottom of the pool, where he was certain the cadre were purposely trying to drown him, and deciding right there and then that they would have to succeed in drowning him to make him quit.
Now, imagine the power of this mindset applied to all aspects of your personal and professional life. This is why John Dunn, and those that tap into the power to intrinsic motivation, make crushing goals look easy.
This episode is filled with great information about how to set yourself up for winning, and how to not let the fear of failure hold you back. Along the way you will hear some of the cases his hard work and preparation led him to, including Operation Guardshack, the Al-Zarqawi site, and the MLK Parade Bomber arrest.
If I had to sum this episode up in one sentence; Hard work pays off! Tune-in and listen up! For those of you attending the TaserCon conference, you will get a chance to train firsthand with John.
Chief Tammy Hooper's career spanned over thirty-two years in law enforcement. Starting as a jail officer in Arlington County, Virginia, when women's role in corrections was limited, she worked in the jail for nearly four years before taking those lessons to the street. Moving over to the Alexandria VA PD, she worked the road when the crack epidemic raged, and the D.C. metro area was the murder capital of the country. This environment was thrilling to work in, but it became all-consuming.
In this episode, Chief Hooper talks about how, over time, this takes a toll physically, emotionally, and mentally. It can be hard to see this when you are in it. Still, with time and the right opportunities for reflection, we can understand how these challenging work environments can influence our personal and professional lives.
Tammy worked in several areas of the police department as she progressed through the ranks, ultimately retiring as Deputy Chief in After she retired from the Alexandria PD, she moved to Ashville, NC, where she took on a new challenge as Chief of Police. Taking the lessons learned from early in her career, Chief Hooper recognized the need to invest in wellness to help with our profession's professional and personal development.
Chief Hooper brings great insights from her personal and professional experiences to this show. There are some great takeaways and lessons for all of us. Maybe the most important one is; You're never too old to start something new, even if that something new is rock climbing! Okay, perhaps risking life and limb for a bit of flow and solitude is not for everyone, but Chief Hooper shares her journey and how climbing led her to places she never expected! Listen in, and maybe you'll learn it is for you!
I feel the need, the need for speed! Okay, maybe that is a little corny but it is hard not to get a little fired up when having a conversation with a Top Gun pilot.
Patrick Houlahan is the founder of Strategic Leadership Consulting. In his business he shares all of his life and leadership experiences forged from a career in the United States Marine Corp where he served at the pinnacle of a piloting career, Top Gun, in addition to several other leadership capacities. A Citadel graduate, he rose to the rank of Colonel. Patrick is a graduate of the United States Marine Corps Amphibious Warfare School, the United States Marine Corps Command and Staff College, and earned his Master of Strategic Studies as a Distinguished Graduate of the United States Army War College. He has flown both the F-18 and the A-10, which may be two of the coolest war planes ever built!
Throughout his career, Patrick recognized that the organizations that succeeded in any endeavor possessed great leaders. Those that did not, failed. Recognizing the need for leadership training, Patrick now dedicates his time and talents to help organizations Build Inspired, Compassionate, Mission-Driven Leaders. Strap in for this exciting episode!
Debra Funston is the Chief of Police for the Rifle, Colorado, Police Department. Policing was not her early plan, but life circumstances led Debra from her home state of Colorado to Virginia, where the love of policing got started. After several years with the Alexandria, VA PD, she moved back to the mountains.
The policing profession has been facing a crisis in recruitment and retention. Throw in a pandemic on top of an already difficult training environment and now you have challenges never before faced by law enforcement leaders. In this episode we learn what it is like to be responsible for training the next generation of police officers in America, in the wake of a global pandemic stacked on top of a year of civil unrest.
Tim Horty, the Executive Director of Indiana Law Enforcement Academy is a retired Deputy Chief from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and understands the rigors of policing. The state is making big investments in the future of training in Indiana and we discuss the “why” behind it all. How is the push to modernize and advance learning methods and critical infrastructure going to reshape the future of policing? Listen in to find out!
How does somebody start a successful law enforcement career at the age of 17? If you are like me, I didn’t know that was even possible. But tune in to listen to how Chief Gacek started his career as a uniformed cadet/police aide with the Milwaukee PD and progressed through the ranks.
After retiring with Milwaukee PD he became a police chief in NC at the age of 43. Chief Gacek talks about the valuable lessons and experiences he gained from starting young and the impact the explorer program had, not just on his career, but many of his co-workers. In this episode he explains the potential roadmap for solving the recruitment and retention issues facing police departments in America today. Chief Gacek is leading by example and we can all learn a lot from this approach.
Have you ever wondered what a Singleton Operator is? Well, wait no longer. On this episode I talk with Tod Langley, the CEO of CRLT, a start-up company built with the combination of modern video game technology and human experiences forged in combat.
Tod discusses his journey from Army Tank Commander to Special Operations Singleton Operator. One of the first soldiers on the ground during the Invasion of Iraq, his unique experiences shaped his expertise in managing crises. Tod has taken his trial by fire experiences and dedicated himself to sharing the lessons learned to help today’s leaders manage and mitigate disaster. How? By creating a video game that teaches consequence management based on real world data. You don’t want to miss this conversation.
Chief Chis Cowan of the Cayce SC Police Department discusses his passion for holistic policing strategies, which provide stability to all citizens, and protect the vulnerable, through programs that create religious, business and neighborhood crime prevention.
Chief Cowan is recognized internationally for his vast network of private and public partnerships and his expansive policing knowledge, from 30 years in law enforcement. Chris’ extensive experience leading special operations, homeland security, crime suppression, professional development, community policing, media relations and business and community crime prevention units has given him a unique perspective on what it takes to be a guardian to our communities.
He also served as a Chief Financial Officer, Chief Public Information Officer, Commander of Special Weapons and Tactics Units and Commander of Community Policing Units. This experience has provided Chris with a unique perspective on mitigating challenges to corporate and community quality of life issues because it has been paralleled with 22 years in corporate security, risk management and professional development.
Listen to a perspective that ideates on what the future of policing looks like from an officer development perspective. Cory McGookin, a fellow Hoosier and instructor at the FBI National Academy, lays out his ideas for the path of development for officers entering today's policing workforce.
Taking lessons learned from around the world of policing at one of the most prestigious policing command development courses directly to your department. This episode will really make you think, and re-think, how and why we set the career trajectories in today's policing world and why it might be time to try something new.
After a successful career in policing with the Charlotte Police Department, Andy Wrenn, VP and Director of Training for Axon, took a chance and left policing to pursue another passion, helping police officers through technology. Now, he is bringing all of his passions and experiences to an exciting training frontier with Axon through a new training conference, TaserCon.
Everyone knows that Axon brings the juice when it comes to Chris Cowan training and technology and in this episode Andy discusses the purpose of TaserCon with Patrick. We know you will be as excited as we are to attend TaserCon after hearing all about it!
In this episode Daniel and Patrick discuss the origin story of Hundred Life Design and Axon Coaching and why Daniel, the CEO, decided to pivot and bring Executive Coaching to the Public Safety space. In a time where there is so much pressure on police officers to perform, Daniel recognized an opportunity to bring his digital coaching platform to police officers to help them flourish.
Patrick Flannelly is the retired Chief of Police for the Lafayette, Indiana, Police Department. Before beginning his career in Law Enforcement, Patrick served four years on active duty in the United States Air Force as a security policeman. Upon completing his military service, he attended Purdue University, where he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Law & Society. In 1995 he began his career as a police officer with the Lafayette Police Department.
In this episode, Chief Flannelly introduces himself and talks about his BHAG! The Big, Hairy, Audacious, Goal of the Coptimizer Podcast; which is to help police officers to Hire Healthy, Retire Healthy, and maximize their opportunities in that space in between. Not just survive a career in policing, but to thrive in your personal and professional lives.