BEST in BLUE powered by KUDZUKIAN: Recent Episodes
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Host Darrell “DC” Catron, will interview police officers and other staff of the Memphis Police Department for a deep dive into issues that impact the community. Topics will include community policing, gangs, and a look at the various positions within the police department and the role they play in protecting the community. Best in Blue listeners will become familiar with many of the unheralded areas of the Memphis Police Department, including community and civic initiatives.
In an inspiring episode of "Breaking Bread with the Chief," hosted by Chief CJ Davis of the Memphis Police Department, leaders from across Memphis gather at the beloved Alcenia's restaurant to engage in a heartfelt dialogue. This unique series, presented by the Best in Blue Podcast, fosters kitchen table-style conversations aimed at bridging gaps between the community and its leaders. The discussion revolves around enhancing public safety, supporting local businesses, and uplifting the city's youth. Through shared meals and stories, this episode not only highlights the challenges facing Memphis but also showcases the collective effort and innovative strategies being employed to create a stronger, safer community.
Join us for a compelling episode of "Breaking Bread with The Chief" featuring Memphis Police Department Chief CJ Davis. In this intimate episode, Chief Davis engages in meaningful conversations with local community leaders, including William Arnold, Director of the Office of Re-Entry, Sgt. Joy Knowlton of the Memphis Police Department, and Melvin Cole, Founder of P.U.R.E Academy. All of this unfolds against the charming backdrop of Feast & Graze. Explore the powerful stories, insights, and connections that emerge over a delicious meal. Subscribe now to be a part of these transformative dialogues that strengthen our community bonds.
Breaking Bread with the Chief at Payne's Bar-B-Que you can't miss. Chief CJ Davis of the Memphis Police Department hosts a kitchen table-style conversation with an assortment of influential leaders at the renowned Payne's Barbecue restaurant. Joined by legendary Memphis rapper Al Capone, Natalie McKinney (Executive Director of Whole Child Strategies), and Patrick Lantrip (Photojournalist from the Daily Memphian), Chief Davis tackles pressing issues faced by children and youth in the community.
Breaking Bread with The Chief is a part of a series of conversations with an assortment of leaders, advocates and influencers in Memphis. In this first episode MPD Chief CJ Davis is at Owen Brennan's restaurant with Activist and Entrepreneur Keedran Franklin, Dana Wilson (Executive Director, Bridges USA) and Marketing Executive Howard Robertson (Trust Marketing) as they talk very openly and directly about the issue of youth crime and violence. They talk about challenges in the neighborhoods, opportunity and access, relationships with and to the police and about holistic solutions to move the city forward.
In this engaging episode of "Breaking Bread with the Chief," presented by the Best in Blue Podcast and the Memphis Police Department, Chief CJ Davis hosts notable guests, Ben Adams, Jerald Trotter, and Van Turner, at Eggxactly Breakfast and Deli. This episode delves into misconceptions, questions, and concerns surrounding crime in Memphis. It also explores innovative approaches to enhancing public safety, the critical role of community policing, and the importance of addressing root causes of crime through collaborative efforts. Join Chief Davis and her guests as they break down barriers over delicious meals, sharing stories, solutions, and visions for a safer, more united Memphis.
The Memphis Police Department presents the second special episode in the 'The Progress Report' series. Chief CJ Davis offers a comprehensive snapshot of the advancements made in 2023 and a peek into the department's goals for 2024. This episode focuses on the intricacies of 21st-century policing strategies as well as what these strategies mean for both the department and the citizens of Memphis. She talks about ramping up community engagement, crisis intervention, revisions to disciplinary policy, officer wellness and the importance of reflecting the demographics of the city. Tune in to learn more!
Join us for "Best in Blue - The Progress Report," a 3-part special video series where we explore the significant strides made in the Memphis Police Department in 2023. Chief CJ Davis discusses key initiatives like officer training, department restructuring, and community-centric projects like "Connect Memphis." In this first episode, Chief Davis offers insights into some of the very important structural changes happening within the department, the expansion of their community collaboration commitment, internal development initiatives and setting a progressive path for 2024.
On this episode of Best In Blue, we are joined by Col. Dereck Stewart, Col. Webb Kirkdoffer and Lt. Monique Williams of the UT Leadership Academy. They dive into what the UT Leadership Academy is and how it services the youth in the state of Tennessee. We specifically learn about how the Memphis Police Department utilizes the academy to serve the City of Memphis.
On this episode of Best in Blue we are joined by Lt. Col. Lenora Armstead and Lt. Ronald Polk of the Memphis Police Department as we take a comprehensive look into the the External Relations Bureau and all that it does in helping keep the City of Memphis safe.
On this episode, we are joined by officer's Timothy Rutherford and Cassandra Leake of the Memphis Police Department. They discuss Memphis Police Department's D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) division and other programs within the department that are designed to help build a stronger Memphis Community. They dive into the ways these programs help facilitate youth growth and reduce crime in our city.
In this episode of Best In Blue we are joined by Memphis police chief CJ Davis and Assistant Chief Shawn Jones. We take in intriguing look into the biggest issues facing the Memphis Police Department right now including youth challenges and and uptick in violent crime. They give comprehensive solutions to these issues and how we can help invest into a better future for Memphis.
In this episode of Best In Blue we are joined by Memphis police chief CJ Davis. We explore the intriguing journey of women striving to succeed in male-dominated fields. We also grasp the importance of cultivating a positive work atmosphere to ensure collective growth. Then we are updated on how law enforcement is incorporating community partnership, changing the face of safety and security. Finally we garner tips on engaging with your community to empower your professional circle.
On this episode of of Best In Blue, we are joined by Deputy Chief Steve Chandler and Colonel Sandra Green of the Memphis Police Department. We gain insight into why community engagement is paramount for crime prevention. We also uncover programs that aim to eradicate crime right from its roots. Then we appreciate diverse youth focused initiatives that offer positive conduits for energy and ambition. They also talk how successful outcomes foster trust and change societal outlooks in communities stained by crime. Finally we investigate deeper into improving conditions of marginalized communities to prevent crime.
We are joined by Memphis Police officers in the special operations unit.
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Discover the inner workings of special operations within the Memphis Police Department.
- Unearth the extensive training process and unique roles of the canine unit that not many are privy to.
- Learn about the specific challenges and requisite skills for succeeding in special ops.
- Gain insight into special operations' intricate process within the heart of the Memphis Police Department.
- Honor the relentless commitment of officers in their mission to safeguard and serve the society.
In this episode of the Best in Blue podcast, Deputy Chief Hampton and Colonel Cunningham from the Memphis Police Department reveal the diverse roles and responsibilities within the HR department. From managing personnel and finances to developing training curriculums, these officers are dedicated to serving their community.
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Explore the fundamental intricacies of the HR department within the Memphis Police Department and its pivotal role in maintaining harmony.
- Gain insights into the potential career progression opportunities within the Memphis Police Department, fueling your drive for professional growth.
- Unearth the critical role of meeting training standards and their implications in shaping effective law enforcement.
Discover the innovative ways technology is being used to fight crime in Memphis in this episode of Best in Blue. We are joined by Deputy Chief Joe Oakley, Information Technology Department for the Memphis Police Department.
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Explore the powerful intersection of technology and contemporary law enforcement practices.
- Learn how the Real-Time Crime Center revolutionizes the approach to tackling criminal activities.
- Unveil the Memphis Connect program as a crucial tool for uniting communities in the fight against crime.
- Recognize the value of incorporating IT expertise into modern police work.
Memphis is a soulful city and the soul of the city is its diversity. As both the Latino and LGBT communities expand, so does MPD. The department is committed to implementing 21st century policing strategy which includes a designated liaison to the Latino and LGBT constituencies. Our host Candace Gray talks to Officers Perea and Dixon about their work with MPD, what that engagement and outreach looks like and their respective paths within the department.
Assistant Chief Jones of the Memphis Police Department talks about how and why he came to Memphis, his work history with Chief Davis in Atlanta and his dedication to the communities in which he serves. With more than 35 years of experience, he went from a small town in Georgia to Atlanta and now Memphis. Throughout his career, Chief Jones has been passionate about community engagement and building positive relationships between the police force and the public. In Atlanta, he was instrumental in establishing the Citizens Police Academy, a program designed to foster trust and collaboration between law enforcement officers and the community they serve. As a true advocate for change and improvement in the dynamic world of policing, Chief Jones' expertise has great insight and ideas about how to contribute to and update policing strategies in Memphis.
Just when you thought you knew the importance of building trust and legitimacy with the community, Chief CJ Davis of the Memphis Police Department shared a surprising twist in the story. Her approach to law enforcement is a game-changer, leaving you with an open loop of questions and answers and a renewed passion to learn more about the crucial ways the department helps the community. This 21st century approach to law enforcement and innovation within the department will be something to witness. Listen now and learn more with Chief CJ.
On this episode of Best in Blue, DC sits down with Major Angela Jenkins, Supervisor of the Traffic Bureau Police Service Technicians, and PST Bah. We get a comprehensive look at the requirements, duties and amazing benefits that come with becoming a Police Service Technician. Make sure you tune into the latest episodes of Best in Blue by downloading the Kudzukian App in the App Store or Google Play.
On this episode of Best in Blue, DC visits with Col. Joe Oakley and Lt. Col. Debbie Jackson with the Mt. Moriah Precinct of the Memphis Police Department. We get a look into the amazing work the officers of the Mt. Moriah Precinct do on a day to day basis to serve and keep the people of the community safe. This is an episode you don't want to miss, so make sure you tune in by downloading the Kudzukian App in the App Store or Google Play.
On this episode of Best in Blue, we hear from Lt. Tina Halfacre from the Memphis Police Department's Motors Unit Traffic Division. The Motors Unit primary jobs are the enforcement of traffic laws, investigation of crashes and special events.
Lt. Tina Halfacre discusses her journey throughout her career and details the job of the MPD motorcycle squad. She has been on the force for 32 years and is the first African American certified motors officer in MPD history.
DC visits The Memphis Police Dept. Canine Unit with Lt. Tom Warrick and Sgt. Shannon Bowen. They share with us what its like having a Canine as a partner, what it takes to train them, their duties and responsibilities, and so much more right here on the KUDZUKIAN Network!!!
On this episode of Best in Blue, DC visits with Lt. Felipe Boyce of the Memphis Police Department's Mounted Patrol.
We get a comprehensive look into the origins of Mounted Patrol and the day to day operations and responsibilities of the unit. We even get a little training on how to mount the horses at Mounted Patrol. This is definitely an episode you don't want to miss, so make sure you tune in at Kudzukian.com or by downloading the Kudzukian App in the App Store or Google Play.
D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) and G.R.E.A.T. (Gang Resistance Education and Training) are two programs championed by the Memphis Police Department. On this episode, Best In Blue visits with Ofc. Cassandra Leake, who is committed to improving the life of Memphis' Youth.
Let's explore the life of an officer that is a part of the Air Support Unit of MPD. Joining DC and Lia, Lt. Max Howard and he will enlighten us on the Air Support Unit, as well as, how the unit interacts and interfaces with the other departments/units of MPD.
DC visits The Memphis Police Dept. Training Academy with Lt. Colonel Anthony Rudolph and Major Sharon Cunningham. They will share with us what it takes to become and continue to be one of the Best In Blue and take us on a tour of the Police Training Academy.
On this episode of Best in Blue, we hear from Col. Dana Sampietro, the commander of the Crump Station Precinct of the Memphis Police Department. We dive into the Crump Station's involvement with the community and the measures that are being taken to keep the areas within the precinct safe.
We discuss the journey of Col. Sampietro, her career goals, motivations, and what led her to become a police officer. We also talk future plans for Crump Station Precinct, so tune into the Best in Blue powered by the Kudzukian Network.
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On this episode of Best in Blue we hear from both Officer Jessica Grafenreed and Major Steve Chandler of the Memphis Police Department Real Time Crime Center. We discuss the intimate details and unknown activities of the RTTC.
We also discuss the 13 year journey for officer Grafenreed and the 28 year journey of Major Chandler and how they both ended up where they are right now, working for the Real Time Crime Center.
Text BNB to 72000 for the latest episodes of Best in Blue.
On this episode of Best in Blue, we hear from Lt. Tina Halfacre from the Memphis Police Department's Motors Unit Traffic Division. The Motors Unit primary jobs are the enforcement of traffic laws, investigation of crashes and special events.
Lt. Tina Halfacre discusses her journey throughout her career and details the job of the MPD motorcycle squad. She has been on the force for 32 years and is the first African American certified motors officer in MPD history.
Text BNB to 72000 for the latest episodes of Best in Blue.
The Memphis Police Department Emergency Communication Bureau provides quality service to the community and handles all 911 calls from the city of Memphis. Using Call Answer Data, the Bureau's 145 dispatchers successfully respond to over 1 million 911 calls a year while meeting the national answer time standards.
On this episode, Best in Blue hears from Michael Spencer, the Emergency Communications Administrator. We talk about how MPD responds to 911 calls and the new Text-911-Initiative. We also talk tips on what to do if you call 911.
Text BNB 72000 to get the latest episode of Best in Blue.
D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) and G.R.E.A.T. (Gang Resistance Education and Training) are two programs championed by the Memphis Police Department. On this episode, Best In Blue visits with Ofc. Cassandra Leake, who is committed to improving the life of Memphis' Youth.
Police Activities League PAL: Best In Blue visits with PAL, Chief Visionary Officer, Sgt. Craig Littles and he will bring us up to date on PAL and how we can help.
The Memphis Police Dept. Training Academy. Visiting on BIB are Lt. Colonel Anthony Rudolph and Major Sharon Cunningham, and they will share with us what it takes to become and continue to be one of the Best In Blue.
The life of an officer that's a part of the Harbor Patrol Unit of the MPD. Joining DC and Lia, Lt. Felipe Boyce will discuss various aspects of the Unit, as well as, the ways that the unit interacts and interfaces with the other departments/units of MPD.
An informative conversation about the life of an officer that is a part of the Bomb Unit of the Memphis Police Department. Joining DC and Lia, Major Rodney Adair and Lt. Tom Warrick will discuss various aspects of the MPD Bomb Unit, as well as, the ways that the unit interacts and interfaces with the other departments.
An informative conversation about the life of an officer that is a part of the Bomb Unit of the Memphis Police Department. Joining DC and Lia, Major Rodney Adair and Lt. Tom Warrick will discuss various aspects of the MPD Bomb Unit, as well as, the ways that the unit interacts and interfaces with the other departments.
An informative conversation about the life of an officer that a part of the Air Support Unit of the Memphis Police Department. Joining DC and Lia, Lt. Max Howard will discuss various aspects of the Air Support Unit, as well as, the ways that the unit interacts and interfaces with the other departments and units of MPD.
An unfiltered conversation between Memphis Police Director, Michael Rallings and Best in Blue's hosts, D.C. and Lia. This transparent sit-down provides the Director the opportunity to discuss the facts around officer encounters with citizens and the results.
An unfiltered conversation between Memphis Police Director, Michael Rallings and Best in Blue's hosts, D.C. and Lia. This transparent sit-down provides the Director the opportunity to discuss the facts around officer encounters with citizens and the results.
An informative conversation about driving under the influence of alcohol and other legal and illegal substances. Visiting us today is Officer Robert Galison of the DUI unit. Joining DC and Lia, Officer Galison will discuss various aspects of the DUI unit as well as the DUI checkpoints, "when to say when" and preventative tips.
An unfiltered conversation between Memphis Police Director, Michael Rallings and Best in Blue's hosts, D.C. and Lia. This transparent sit-down provides the Director the opportunity to discuss the facts around officer involved shootings and their accompanying statistics.
Joining DC and Lia are Sgt. Milton Bonds and Lt. James Taylor of the Sex Crimes/Child Abuse Bureau. We are highlighting many issues around internet safety, cyber-bullying’, sex abuse and fraud via the internet. Please check out this episode, you are guaranteed to learn something!
Best in Blue, MPD Lead Recruiter, Kevin Moore, returns to visit with D.C. and Lia to discuss the new recruitment initiatives at the Memphis Police Department. Officer Moore discusses what it takes to become one of the Best In Blue!
[ Video ] This episode of Best In Blue is one that we hope reaches, then teaches and then calls to action the prevention of Domestic Violence in our community. Also, how we as a community can help those who are facing Domestic Violence situations, highlight available resources and even shed light on some real time stats on whose affected by DV. Our guest today is Major JD Smith, Commander of the Domestic Violence Unit.
[ Video ] Our guests today are Col. Paul Wright, Organized Crime Unit and Lt. Terence Jackson, Heroin Response Team, they join us to discuss the growing impact of opioid addictions and heroin overdoses in the country and particularly here in Memphis.
[ Video ] An open and honest conversation between Memphis Police Director, Michael Rallings and Best in Blue's host, Darrell "D.C." Catron. This transparent sit-down with the Director reveals his thoughts on a myriad of topics, including:
- Active Shooters/School Shootings
- Parental Involvement
- Youth-focused Activities
- The Scope of Work of the Police Officer
Our guests today are Deputy Chief Michael Hardy with MPD and Chief Deputy, Floyd Bonner, with Shelby Co. Sheriff’s Office. We are going to discuss and unpack the joint community policing efforts of both departments, how they work collaboratively and how their efforts together are to insure the safety and security of all citizens of Memphis and Shelby County.
[ Video ] Our guest today is Major Darren Goods, Commander of Multi-Agency Gang Unit, a unit whose focus is to help keep our city and streets safe by mitigating the impact criminal gangs have on our communities. Major Goods will discuss with you how best to keep our young people from being easy targets for gang membership and how we as citizens can be more aware of the happenings with our children.
[ Video ] Our guest is Sgt. Craig Littles, Chief Visionary Officer of the Police Activities League a/k/a PAL. Sgt. Littles is committed to the youth of Shelby County and has championed the need and continued support of PAL by the Memphis Police Department and many other community partners. During his visit to BIB, Sgt. Littles discusses PAL's success, its partners, its athletic leagues and how people can donate and become a PAL volunteer. Enjoy!!!
Law enforcement has another name for mass shootings they call them, Active Shooter Events. Sandy Hook, Columbine, Sutherland Springs, Tx., Texas Tech, all of these situations are well-known Active Shooter Events... How do we prepare? Sgt. Darryl Banks and Officer Robert Carlson will walk us through some of the scenarios that, if we are lucky, we will never experience personally.
Most of us have witnessed or been involved with persons who’ve found themselves in crisis…well our MPD has specially trained officers who make the scene everyday to assist with ensuring those family members their loved one will be met with an officer who attempts to ensure they are handled in the least restrictive manner possible. Lt. Col Beasley and Officer James Lash join Best in Blue host, Darrell D.C. Catron, to take you through what CIT is, how they work with some of the community partners that are involved and finally how you can ensure your loved one is responded to when they are in crisis
This episode of Best In Blue is one that we hope reaches, then teaches and then calls to action the prevention of Domestic Violence in our community. Also, how we as a community can help those who are facing Domestic Violence situations, highlight available resources and even shed light on some real time stats on whose affected by DV. Our guest today is Major JD Smith, Commander of the Domestic Violence Unit.
Part 2 of an open and host conversation between Memphis Police Director, Michael Rallings and Best in Blue's host, D.C. This transparent sit-down with the Director reveals his thoughts on a myriad of topics, including:
- Recruiting the Best In Blue
- Active Shooters/School Shootings
- Youth-focused Activities
Part 1 of an open and host conversation between Memphis Police Director, Michael Rallings and Best in Blue's host, Darrell "D.C." Catron. This transparent sit-down with the Director reveals his thoughts on a myriad of topics, including:
- The Opioid Epidemic
- Police and the need for Parental Involvement with youth
- The Scope of Work of the Police Officer
Did you know there are over 600 MPD officers in the Traffic Unit?
Best In Blue visits with Colonel Sam Hines and Lt. Colonel Keith Watson of the Traffic and Special Ops Unit and they are visiting BIB to shed some light on the importance of the Traffic and Special Ops Unit. We will touch on the various teams that make the Unit and how you can get a great paying job, out of high school, with MPD.
Best In Blue visits with Major Felecica Adams and Lt. Milton Bonds of the Memphis Police Department’s Sex Crimes/ Child Abuse Bureau. They are visiting BIB to discuss some internet safety tips for you and your children.
You need to listen to this show if you answer "no" to any of the following questions:
Do you know what your child is doing while surfing the internet?
Do you know what social media sites your child frequents?
Do you know what your child is posting or sharing while on-line?
Best In Blue visits with Major Lambert Ross of the MPD Violent Crimes Unit. They discuss:
- What defines a violent crime
- What is the state of violent crimes in Memphis and the US.
- Violent Crimes vs. Homicide
- Your neighborhood is your DOMAIN, we will help you if you allow us.
On this episode of BEST In BLUE, D.C. and MPD Director Michael Rallings interview Sam Faulkner, CEO of Response To Resistance. Response To Resistance has established comprehensive guidelines on what constitutes reasonable responses to various types of resistive and/or aggressive situations. When police are faced with using force to establish or maintain control in hostile situations, ensure that they are armed with these well research, validated and court-tested guidelines.
Our guest is Sgt. Craig Littles, Chief Visionary Officer of the Police Activities League a/k/a PAL. Sgt. Littles is committed to the youth of Shelby County and has championed the need and continued support of PAL by the Memphis Police Department and many other community partners. During his visit to BIB, Sgt. Littles discusses PAL's success, its partners, its athletic leagues and how people can donate and become a PAL volunteer. Enjoy!!!
Our guest is Colonel D.L. Sheffield, Station Commander and he is a leader in the effort to curtail, if not eliminate car theft. Colonel Sheffield will discuss with you how best to keep our car from being stolen or burglarized. Car theft and burglaries are on the rise and it's important to make the needed adjustments in our behaviors that will make a tremendous impact on the numbers of auto burglaries and thefts.
Our guest today is Major Darren Goods, Commander of Multi-Agency Gang Unit, a unit whose focus is to help keep our city and streets safe by mitigating the impact criminal gangs have on our communities. Major Goods will discuss with you how best to keep our young people from being easy targets for gang membership and how we as citizens can be more aware of the happenings with our children.
Our guest today is Major Darren Goods, Commander of Multi-Agency Gang Unit, a unit whose focus is to help keep our city and streets safe by mitigating the impact criminal gangs have on our communities. Major Goods will discuss with you how best to keep our young people from being easy targets for gang membership and how we as citizens can be more aware of the happenings with our children and in our own communities.
Memphis Police Officer and MMA Fight, Brian "The Law" Hall sits down with D.C. to discuss the Memphis Police Boxing Gym and how they are using boxing to reach some of today's troubled youth.
Memphis Police Department's Organized Crime Unit visits BEST In BLUE to discuss the Opioid crisis sweeping the country. Colonel Paul Wright and Lt. Terence Jackson dig in to many of the finer details of the proliferation of opioid drugs and heroin.
BIB does a deep dive with Domestic Violence Unit, Lead Officer, Lt. Steve Roach. D.C. and Lt. Roach explain what constitutes as domestic violence, what forms of domestic violence exist and what to do if you are ever faced with an issue that could potentially domestic violence.
This week on Best in Blue, MPD Lead Recruiter, Kevin Moore, visits with D.C. and discusses what it takes to become a member of the Memphis Police Department. Officer Moore goes into detail about what makes a great police officer and what really makes a BEST in BLUE! Enjoy
Best in Blue's host, Darrell "D.C." Catron from Funky Politics, has a sit-down with the Director of the Memphis Police Department, Director Mike Rallings. D.C. asked many questions that many Memphians would ask. This is a wide open show and the director lets everyone know where he stands on domestic violence.
Our host, D.C. sits down with 3 of the BEST in BLUE, Lt. Tyrone Currie, Officer Cassandra Leake and Officer Clayton Turner and they discuss the Memphis Police Departments focus on Community Policing. They also dig into the various initiatives created to enhance the police departments relationship with the Memphis community. Enjoy another episode of BEST in BLUE.