The LEO First Podcast

Every law enforcement officer has a story to tell! Whether cautionary tales or stories that inspire and encourage…they are all based on real experiences! Get ready to hear from the men and women who put their lives on the line every day for their communities and their country! This is the LEO First Podcast with Michael Laidler!

Episode 47: From Music to Service: Lindsay McCall Long's Journey 04/24/2024

Episode 46: Resilience and Reflections: A 23-Year Law Enforcement Journey featuring Ray Beshirs 04/09/2024

Episode 45: Insights from the Frontline featuring John Vik 03/26/2024

Episode 44: Navigating Mental Health and Leadership in Federal Corrections with Andrea Ballesteros 03/12/2024

Episode 43: Cultivating Empathy in Law Enforcement with Burke Brownfeld 02/27/2024

Episode 42 - Unveiling the Journey - Jennie Hill, Executive Director of Wounded Blue 02/13/2024

Episode 42 - Unveiling the Journey - Jennie Hill, Executive Director of Wounded Blue In Episode 42 of the LEO First Podcast, join the riveting conversation with Jennie Hill, the dynamic Executive Director of Wounded Blue, who launched her impactful journey in 2019. Living in Buford, GA, Jennie shares her compelling story of eight years as a former officer, reflecting on a time when K9 wasn't part of her life. She introduces Barron, her canine companion acquired at 10 weeks old, now an integral part of her world at 2.5 years. Diagnosed with PTSD in 2013, Jennie's narrative unfolds with the question: What came first, Wounded Blue or Barron? The episode explores the challenges she faced, including a colleague's tragic death two days into FTO, leading to a profound moment of denial and subsequent intervention by FTO and Dr. Ginger. Jennie openly discusses her coping mechanisms, humor in particular, and navigates personal struggles, including a divorce, TBI, and a shoulder injury incurred while clearing a call. A wake-up call from her chief and deputy, dropping off business cards without follow-up, prompted reflection on life's worth. In a raw and vulnerable revelation, Jennie shares her darkest moment in 2013, contemplating suicide until a friend's timely question, "Are you okay?" sparked a turning point. The episode traces her evolution, culminating in the formation of a training initiative in August 2018, impacting over 14,000 officers nationwide. The conversation highlights the reactive nature of peer support and emphasizes its necessity starting at the leadership level. Drawing inspiration from Simon Sinek, Jennie poses the crucial question: Can you influence leaders? Addressing complexities within law enforcement, she references her book, "I Think I Love a Cop," and reveals her personal resolution to help others. The episode concludes with a poignant question: What can I do for you? For those seeking connection, Jennie can be reached via email or Facebook, and Barron's adventures can be followed on Instagram. In her final words, Jennie extends a lifeline, urging anyone in need to reach out. Wounded Blue provides a 24-hour helpline for support. #LEOFirstPodcast #developthepolice #WoundedBlue #Survivor /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/29013723

Episode 41 - Exploring Decades of Policing Wisdom with Bob Stewart 01/23/2024

Episode 40 - Balancing Badges and Empowering Mindsets with Lyndsay Taylor 01/09/2024

Episode 39 - Unleashing the Warrior Spirit with Pat McNamara 12/19/2023

Episode 39 - Unleashing the Warrior Spirit with Pat McNamara In Episode 39 of our podcast, we sit down with the incredible Pat McNamara, a true warrior with 22 years of experience in the Army. Owner of TMACS and the mastermind behind Invader Coffee, Pat holds a unique position on the internet with a massive following on LinkedIn (57k), Instagram (600k), and a thriving YouTube channel. Discover the man behind "Basic Dude Stuff," a platform he co-created at home with his wife in December 2019. Pat shares insights into self-improvement and promoting good human behavior, emphasizing that every night is Saturday and every morning is Monday in his world. As the author of T.A.P.S. (Tactical Application of Practical Shooting) and Sentinel, Pat explains the importance of securing intellectual property and limiting the number of people you share your ideas with. Learn about the inspiration behind his creations and the impact of Basic Dude Stuff on people worldwide. Pat takes us on a journey through his high-stress positions, emphasizing the power of having a healthy outlet, whether it's baking a cake or exploring primal skills. Discover the motivation behind his Sunday Sentinel Sermons and how his YouTube channel serves as a vehicle for escape. From the power of looking up to finding inspiration in the ospreys of Florida, Pat shares his secrets for staying on high alert and the importance of a warrior mindset. Dive into his workout philosophy, diet, and the projects he juggles outside of work, all while mitigating excuses and finding motivation. Join us as we explore Pat's incredible journey, from overcoming chronic pain to battling diseases like PMR (Poly Myalgia Rheumatica). Learn where his drive comes from and how, at the age of 15, he started working out, ultimately embracing the challenges life throws his way. Connect with Pat's ventures, TMACS for adventure training and primal skills, and Invader Coffee based in Austin, TX. Don't miss the Blaze Ops Blend! Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a true warrior who believes that some people just can't get out of their own way. #WarriorMindset #BasicDudeStuff #InvaderCoffee #developthepolice #theleofirstpodcast /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/28606168

Episode 38 - A Legacy of Service with Randall Doizaki 12/12/2023

Episode 37 - Flawed yet Faithful: A Candid Conversation with Dina Campbell 12/05/2023

Episode 37 - Flawed yet Faithful: A Candid Conversation with Dina Campbell In this compelling episode of the LEO First Podcast, we are honored to host Dina Campbell, a dedicated NYPD police officer with 12 years of experience. Join us as we explore Dina's unique journey, navigating the challenges of a law enforcement career while balancing the roles of a mother, wife, and advocate for mental health. In this candid conversation, we explore the intricacies of Dina's daily life, including her role as a part-time babysitter, the juggling act of work, and providing unwavering support to her children. Commuting for an hour daily adds an extra layer of complexity, but Dina reveals her backup plans and strategies for maintaining balance. Despite facing financial challenges, Dina harbored dreams of becoming a financial planner. We explore how her aspirations evolved amidst the demands of her family life and the unforeseen tragedy that struck two months after her graduation when a close friend and colleague took his own life. Dina opens up about her personal struggle with postpartum anxiety, shedding light on the stigma that deterred her from seeking help. The turning point came when she reached out to a friend for support, emphasizing the crucial role of mental health in the first responder community. Discover how Dina became involved in the Employee Assistance Unit and the Peer Support Unit, where she shares her experiences dealing with her daughter's accident, navigating the rumor mill, and advocating for mental health awareness. Throughout the episode, Dina reflects on her faith, her sense of control amidst negativity and low morale, and her commitment to being the change. She leaves us with valuable insights on the discipline of asking, listening, encouraging, and following up with peers, emphasizing the importance of building a supportive community. Join us for this inspiring episode as we explore Dina's journey of being flawed yet faithful, proving that even in the face of challenges, one can emerge stronger and make a positive impact. #FlawedYetFaithful #LEOLife #PoliceWife #MentalHealthMatters #BeTheChange #developthepolice /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/28605293

Episode 36 - From Cop to Counselor: A Journey of Healing with Donn Bradley 11/28/2023

Episode 36 - From Cop to Counselor: A Journey of Healing with Donn Bradley In Episode 37 of our podcast, we welcomed Donn Bradley, a remarkable individual who transitioned from a career as a police officer to becoming a therapist. Donn's life journey is a testament to the power of personal growth and transformation. Born in Oregon and raised in Oklahoma, Donn reflects on the societal norms he grew up with, where men were often discouraged from showing their emotions. He shared candidly about his early experiences in law enforcement, particularly the profound impact of encountering his first dead body, a moment that challenged his emotional resilience. The turning point in Donn's life occurred after a significant incident in 2006, which led to a spiral of pain pills and alcohol as he struggled to cope with the emotional toll of his job. He navigated the complex workman's comp process and grappled with feelings of anger, stemming from perceived abandonment by people he expected to support him. Donn explained the the crucial role of "permission" in personal transformation. He highlighted the three essential steps to initiate change: acknowledgment, understanding how experiences affect one's life, and granting oneself the permission to heal and grow. He introduced the concept of "4 greater than 2: The New Mission," emphasizing that those who have the capability also bear the responsibility to help others. Donn outlined four key aspects of life that individuals should address for their well-being: physical, intellectual, social, and emotional. The discussion also touched on the profound impact of stress, both emotional and physical, and the importance of granting oneself permission to embrace and express emotions. Donn recommended the book "The Body Keeps the Score" and underlined the significance of healing for oneself rather than trying to meet others' expectations. To connect with Donn Bradley for therapy and counseling, you can visit his website "Therapywithdonn" and explore telesession and telehealth options. In closing, Donn shared a powerful message: "Give yourself permission." His journey from policing to counseling is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for transformation and healing. #podcast #lawenforcement #developthepolice #leofirst #womeninlawenforcement /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/28447508

Episode 35 - A Dispatcher's Journey: 30 Years in the Heartbeat of the Department with Deborah Green 11/14/2023

Episode 35 - A Dispatcher's Journey: 30 Years in the Heartbeat of the Department with Deborah Green In Episode 35 of our podcast, we had the privilege of hosting Deborah Green, who has dedicated three decades to the world of emergency dispatch. With an impressive 28 years of experience in this critical role, Deborah's insights into the challenges and triumphs of this demanding profession are invaluable. Hailing from El Dorado, California, Deborah's journey into dispatch began in 1986, a year marked by significant events in her life and in the world. She served in the military police department and found herself in the academy during the tumultuous Rodney King incident, a time when she was also on a journey of self-discovery. Deborah's dispatch career commenced at the tender age of 19. Life took her to Texas, where she faced personal challenges, including divorce, all while being the heartbeat of her department. She described the importance of critical incident stress management, a practice that she herself has been engaged in through therapy since 2016. Over the years, Deborah has learned to use the tools from therapy to help calm distressed individuals during emergency calls, a skill that undoubtedly saved lives. She vividly recounted her first 911 call, which was a mother discovering her daughter had committed suicide, a moment that left an indelible mark on her. The year 2015 brought a life-changing event when Deborah was the dispatcher during a February shooting incident. She shared the concept of "pump head" and how it accentuates the importance of mental health in her line of work. She has always viewed the world through a rose-colored lens but is acutely aware of the constant need to be vigilant and identify potential threats. Deborah retired from her dispatch career but not before helping a little along the way. Her last incident in 2019 involved a shooting and became a catalyst for her to undergo critical incident debriefing. Since retirement, she has found happiness and balance in life. Balancing the demands of working graveyards and being a mom was no small feat, and she shares her wisdom on using time wisely and the possibility of rebuilding relationships. Above all, Deborah is an advocate for mental health awareness, encouraging everyone to acknowledge their mental health issues. You can connect with Deborah Green on LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, and more. She leaves the podcast with final words directed at top law enforcement leaders, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the mental health challenges faced by the dedicated individuals working on the front lines of emergency dispatch. Deborah's journey as a dispatcher is an inspiration and a testament to the resilience and strength of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes in our emergency response systems. #podcast #lawenforcement #developthepolice #leofirst #womeninlawenforcement /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/28447388

Episode 34 - From a Small City to Big Impact: A Constable's Journey with Christopher Bates 11/07/2023

Episode 34 - From a Small City to Big Impact: A Constable's Journey with Christopher Bates In Episode 34 of our podcast, we had the privilege of hosting Christopher Bates, a dedicated constable serving in Jefferson County. Known simply as "Chris" to many, Chris shared his remarkable journey in a small city as a constable. With 15 years of experience in law enforcement, Chris' path to becoming a constable wasn't always straightforward. Initially, his first career choice was to become an elementary school teacher, but life had different plans. He candidly discussed the fact that police work isn't suited for everyone, and his family's reaction to his career choice was one of understanding and lack of surprise. As the eldest of six siblings, Chris understands the importance of setting a positive example. He shared insights into the moral complexities faced by law enforcement officers when dealing with individuals who often know they are doing wrong. Respect, a fundamental aspect of his role as a constable, became a significant talking point. He acknowledged how, despite thinking he knew everything, especially after working the graveyard shift, he came to realize that there was always more to learn. Chris' dedication to his community was evident through his involvement in various events and initiatives, from scholarship programs to supporting local youth. He initiated a scholarship program in 2015, which has since awarded $30,000 in scholarships. He is even considering pursuing a doctorate to further his contributions. Throughout the episode, Chris emphasized the importance of a strong support system, highlighting the critical roles played by his mom, dad, and grandparents. He acknowledged that a solid foundation is crucial for success. As the discussion continued, Chris explained the role of a constable, the oldest law enforcement agency in Texas, which has been in existence for over two centuries. He detailed the responsibilities, including bailiff duties in the courts and overseeing civil processes. Motivated by the opportunity to help people and driven by his unwavering support for his community, Chris emphasized the importance of understanding and support in his line of work. To connect with Constable Christopher Bates, you can find him on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. For official matters in Jefferson County Precinct 2, you can reach out via email. In conclusion, Chris shared some final words of wisdom. He revealed that speaking candidly and openly about his experiences is a form of therapy for him. His advice to others is to find their passion and place in their community, fostering a sense of purpose and making a positive impact. #podcast #lawenforcement #developthepolice #leofirstpodcast #constable /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/28447232

Episode 33 - Building a Legacy of Leadership: A Conversation with Daryell Harmon, VP of Sales at ASP 10/31/2023

Episode 32 - Tech Innovations and Wellness: A Conversation with David Bezzant, VP of Public Sector at T-Mobile 10/24/2023

Episode 32 - Tech Innovations and Wellness: A Conversation with David Bezzant, VP of Public Sector at T-Mobile In Episode 32, we have the privilege of speaking with David Bezzant, Vice President of Public Sector at T-Mobile USA, Inc. With 25 years of experience in the tech industry, David brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table. David shares insights into T-Mobile's involvement in the government sector and their commitment to cutting-edge technology. He discusses his recent participation in the FBINAA Annual Conference, highlighting the significance of innovation in law enforcement. Beyond his professional life, David's dedication extends to an urban fruit farm, where he manages his time alongside his family. He's also a devoted father with a passion for creating safe environments. During our conversation, we touch on critical topics such as mental illness and the importance of fostering mental wellness within the law enforcement community. David recounts a pivotal incident from seven years ago in Baltimore, emphasizing the need for initiatives like the "100% Connecting Heroes" program. We explore T-Mobile's role as America's leading 5G provider and the significance of technology upgrades in law enforcement, including Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems and smart roadway solutions. David also shares what motivates him, from staying physically active and reading to the power of real-life connections and the impact of scent and memory. Work-life balance takes center stage as David emphasizes the importance of intentionality and habit in achieving it. He offers valuable advice on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Throughout the episode, David provides insights into his journey, and we discuss ways to connect with him, including his LinkedIn profile, X (@db_bezz), and T-Mobile's official website. Join us for an insightful conversation about technology, wellness, and leadership with David Bezzant, as we explore the challenges and opportunities in the public sector and the power of innovation. #Tech #PublicSector #MentalWellness #TMobile #Podcast #developthepolice #leofirstpodcast /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/28207967

Episode 31 - Policing with Purpose: A Conversation with Tyrone Davis 10/17/2023

Episode 31 - Policing with Purpose: A Conversation with Tyrone Davis In Episode 31 of our podcast, we sit down with Tyrone Davis, a dedicated 27-year veteran in law enforcement, to understand his remarkable journey from the streets of New York City to his current role as Assistant Chief for the Seattle Police Department. Tyrone shares his upbringing, born to parents from the Virgin Islands and his move to Houston at the tender age of 12, eventually settling in Washington. His journey includes an unforgettable encounter with the police when he was pulled over by a black DPS officer while cruising in a 1980s Ford Mustang. Surprisingly, Tyrone had no prior experience with law enforcement and initially aspired to become an attorney or prosecutor. Throughout the episode, we explore Tyrone's impressive career trajectory. Tyrone candidly discusses the challenges he faces today, including navigating settlement agreements and securing budgets for his department. Tyrone's passion for community building and 21st Century Policing shines through as he talks about initiatives such as National Night Out in Seattle. He offers insights into the complexities of policing, acknowledging the contradictions between aspirations and realities. We also explore the vital topic of keeping a motivated and engaged team in the demanding world of law enforcement. Tyrone shares his strategies for keeping his team informed, involved, and valued, even in the face of challenges. He opens up about his own experiences with work-life balance and the importance of understanding and accommodating the needs of his personnel. Diversity and inclusion, grooming standards, and the imperative of a forward-thinking culture shift within law enforcement are all part of this enriching conversation with Tyrone Davis. You can connect with Tyrone on LinkedIn for more insights and updates on his journey. #BlackLawEnforcement #Mentorship #Podcast #developthepolice #leofirstpodcast #WorkLifeBalance /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/28207781

Episode 30 - From Marines to Mentors: Insights from Sixty Years of Law Enforcement ft. Marc Jackson and Vincent Plair 10/10/2023

Episode 30 - From Marines to Mentors: Insights from Sixty Years of Law Enforcement ft. Marc Jackson and Vincent Plair In Episode 30, join us as we explore the remarkable journeys of Vincent Plair and Marc Jackson, two seasoned law enforcement professionals with over six decades of combined experience. Vincent, originally hailing from the Bronx, and Marc, a Cleveland native, both found their way to California after serving in the Marine Corps. They dedicated substantial portions of their lives to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office, with Vincent serving for 34 years and Marc for 28. Our conversation in this episode covers a wide array of topics, offering unique insights into their careers and the world of law enforcement. We dive deep into the infamous O.J. Simpson case of 1994, exploring the behind-the-scenes details and challenges faced by law enforcement during such high-profile cases. Vincent and Marc also share their thoughts on the critical issue of mental wellness among law enforcement officers, particularly within the context of being black officers. They discuss the importance of mentorship and ambassadorship in nurturing the growth of younger officers and the significance of a strong work ethic in this demanding profession. One of the key takeaways from this episode is the discussion on leadership development. Vincent and Marc believe that leadership training should commence before individuals step into leadership roles, and they share valuable insights on how this can be achieved. Lastly, our guests shed light on the transition from law enforcement to the private sector, offering guidance to those contemplating such a move. If you're on the lookout for strong mentors and individuals genuinely invested in your growth, Vincent Plair and Marc Jackson can be found on LinkedIn. Tune in to this enlightening episode to gain a deeper understanding of their journeys and the valuable lessons they've learned along the way. #MentalWellness #BlackLawEnforcement #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #Podcast #developthepolice #leofirstpodcast /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/27986295

Episode 29 - Breaking Barriers and Developing Leaders: Betsy Brantner Smith's Encouraging Journey in Law Enforcement 10/03/2023

Episode 29 - Breaking Barriers and Developing Leaders: Betsy Brantner Smith's Encouraging Journey in Law Enforcement In Episode 29, we have the privilege of welcoming Betsy Brantner Smith, the National Spokesman at the National Police Association and a distinguished 29-year veteran of the Naperville, IL Police Department. Betsy takes us on a captivating journey through her experiences in law enforcement, her pioneering role as one of only four women to pass the police academy when she started, and her remarkable life story marked by resilience and success. Betsy's narrative unfolds with her early days in the 80s, where she defied norms by entering a predominantly male-dominated profession. She shares the challenges she faced and the invaluable lessons she learned along the way, ultimately thriving as a prolific columnist for multiple esteemed organizations. One of Betsy's notable achievements is the creation of the course, "The Winning Mind for Women," a testament to her dedication to empowering women in law enforcement and equipping them with the mindset and skills for success. Betsy's journey takes an unexpected turn as she confronts a formidable adversary—cancer. Her inspiring account of battling and overcoming this health challenge reveals her unyielding spirit and resilience in the face of adversity. Furthermore, Betsy sheds light on the vital work of the National Police Association, emphasizing their role in providing education, legal support, and in-depth investigations to support law enforcement professionals. Throughout the episode, Betsy shares impactful stories and insights on training and the experiences of women in the law enforcement industry. Her wisdom and passion for her work shine through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in law enforcement, empowerment, and leading change. For more from Betsy Brantner Smith, you can connect with her on Twitter @sgtbetsysmith, LinkedIn, or visit Femaleforces.com. Don't miss out on the wealth of knowledge and inspiration she brings to this enlightening conversation. /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/27947229

Episode 28 - Elevating Law Enforcement: Training, Tactical Breathing, and Creating a Family Environment ft. Banning Sweatland 09/26/2023

Episode 28 - Elevating Law Enforcement: Training, Tactical Breathing, and Creating a Family Environment ft. Banning Sweatland In Episode 28, we continue our engaging conversation with Banning Sweatland, a dedicated Patrol Supervisor at the Jack County Sheriff’s Office and a Marine veteran with two decades of law enforcement experience. Banning delves into a myriad of topics that shed light on the critical aspects of law enforcement and community building. One prominent theme explored is the importance of training within the law enforcement realm. Banning passionately emphasizes the need for more comprehensive and ongoing training in the field, a subject that is often underestimated. He underscores how continuous training enhances an officer's ability to navigate the complexities of their role effectively. Banning also shares his personal experience with tactical breathing and how this simple yet powerful technique has positively impacted his capacity to manage stress and remain composed in high-pressure situations. A remarkable aspect of Banning's leadership style is his commitment to creating a familial atmosphere within his team. He details how inviting different deputies to share meals with him and his wife has forged enduring bonds and nurtured a sense of unity among his colleagues. Banning is a firm believer in the constructive influence of social media, both on himself and those who follow him. He expresses his desire to bring joy and positivity to others through his presence on platforms like LinkedIn. Throughout the episode, Banning acknowledges the profound influence of mentors in his law enforcement journey, citing individuals like Randy Sutton and Mark Lamb, whose guidance has shaped his mindset as a police officer. Banning's current mission involves promoting the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame, an important initiative with an upcoming event on March 22, 2024, in Fort Worth, Texas. He passionately encourages support for this program, stressing the significant impact of donations. To connect with Banning Sweatland, reach out to him on LinkedIn, or send him an email directly at . The final hour of this interview is packed with invaluable insights, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in law enforcement, community engagement, and the power of mentorship. #LawEnforcementTraining #PositiveInfluence #NationalLEOHallOfFame #Podcast #developthepolice /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/27924498

Episode 27 - From Adversity to Achievement: Banning Sweatland's Journey of Resilience 09/19/2023

Episode 27 - From Adversity to Achievement: Banning Sweatland's Journey of Resilience In Episode 27, we jump into an inspiring conversation with Banning Sweatland, a dedicated Patrol Supervisor at the Jack County Sheriff’s Office. With an impressive two decades of service in law enforcement and a background as a Marine, Banning takes us on a remarkable journey through his life, highlighting the experiences that shaped the resilient and accomplished man he is today. Banning's journey is one of profound depth, starting with his upbringing. Growing up, he attended a staggering 23 different schools, which in itself was a life lesson in adaptability. Central to his journey is the influence of his father, Keith Sweatland, who served as his mentor and laid the foundation for his eventual success. One pivotal aspect of Banning's life story is his adoption at birth, which set the stage for the challenges and triumphs that followed. He candidly shares his struggle with bullying during his middle school years and how it propelled him to learn how to fight, both metaphorically and literally. Banning's path to becoming a Marine was marked by hurdles, including difficulties with the ASVAB test. However, his unwavering determination and commitment to his goals led him to achieve what he set out to do, ultimately making his father incredibly proud. Furthermore, Banning reveals that his life experiences have led him to embark on the journey of writing his own book, a testament to the wisdom and resilience he has accumulated throughout his life. The first hour of this episode offers a captivating glimpse into Banning's life and serves as a prelude to what promises to be an insightful continuation in the next week's show. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by Banning Sweatland's journey of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness. For more information and updates, you can find Banning on his LinkedIn page. This episode is one you'll want to tune in to from start to finish. #LawEnforcement #Resilience #Marine #podcast #developthepolice /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/27924423

Episode 26 - Leading Law Enforcement: The Journey from Chief to Mentor Ft. Marcia Harnden 09/12/2023

Episode 26 - Leading Law Enforcement: The Journey from Chief to Mentor Ft. Marcia Harnden In this insightful podcast episode, we are joined by Marcia Harnden, a distinguished figure in law enforcement with a 30-year career, currently serving as the Police Chief for the Albany Police Department in Oregon. Additionally, she holds the role of Managing Partner at M3 Leadership Group, where she imparts her extensive leadership expertise to prepare aspiring leaders for promotion and building their leadership toolkit. Marcia begins by sharing her invaluable experiences and observations from her remarkable journey in the law enforcement profession. Her tenure as a police chief commenced just prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, presenting her with a unique set of challenges and opportunities. One remarkable achievement discussed is her exceptional success in boosting staffing levels within her agency to an impressive 99%, while many other law enforcement agencies faced significant staffing shortages. She sheds light on her innovative approach to recruitment, including the immediate assignment of mentors to new applicants, fostering a culture where the default response is "yes," with a focus on enhancing the agency's overall performance. A pivotal aspect of Marcia's strategy involves leveraging social media to showcase the exceptional qualities of her officers. By doing so, she has not only strengthened the connection with her community but also consistently piqued interest in her agency. In her role at M3 Leadership Group, Marcia plays a crucial part in preparing leaders for advancement within their organizations. She emphasizes the importance of continuously building one's leadership skills and knowledge. To learn more about Marcia Harnden and her insights into employee retention and officer wellness, you can connect with her on LinkedIn or visit the M3 Leadership Group website. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamic world of law enforcement and the positive impact of strong leadership. /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/27924138

Episode 25 - Life After Suicidal Thoughts ft. Chris Manders 09/05/2023

Episode 25 - Life After Suicidal Thoughts ft. Chris Manders In this powerful episode, we have the privilege of hearing from Chris Manders, a retired NYPD Lieutenant and a remarkable professional speaker. Chris's life story is one of resilience, courage, and the transformational power of reaching out for help. Born and raised in the quiet suburb of West Hempstead, situated on Long Island just outside of the bustling New York City, Chris Manders was a shining example of academic excellence and athletic prowess during his formative years. Joining the NYPD at the young age of twenty-four, he embarked on a career that would see him serving his community and experiencing both the rewards and challenges of life in law enforcement. But beneath his achievements and the facade of strength, Chris battled a silent enemy: the struggle with thoughts of suicide. In this candid conversation, Chris opens up about the internal turmoil he faced and the obstacles that prevented him from seeking the help he so desperately needed. Despite the resources available to him, fear of judgment and societal stigma held him back from taking that crucial step. Everything changed when a simple question was posed to Chris: "Do you feel like hurting yourself?" In that pivotal moment, he found the courage to answer truthfully: "Yes." This admission marked the beginning of a transformative journey towards healing and recovery. Chris's story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of breaking the silence surrounding mental health issues and seeking help when it's needed most. Listeners will be captivated by Chris's personal account of how he overcame his struggles, dismantling the barriers that once confined him. His story sheds light on the strength that comes from vulnerability and the power of human connection. Through sharing his experiences, Chris has become an advocate for mental health awareness, inspiring others to reach out, speak up, and embrace hope. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for positive change when we confront our challenges head-on. Chris Manders's journey from a young, accomplished athlete to a retired NYPD Lieutenant and influential speaker is a testament to the transformative power of seeking help and breaking free from the chains of silence. To learn more about Chris Manders and his impactful work, visit his website at . Don't miss this opportunity to listen to a story that has the potential to inspire, uplift, and encourage meaningful conversations around mental health. /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/27755448

Episode 24 - A positive outlook leads to... ft. Bryan Dobbs 08/29/2023

Episode 23 - Retired but not Retired ft. Ernie Stevens 08/22/2023

Episode 22 - The Ivory Tower ft. Tom Rizzo 08/15/2023

Episode 21 - Checkpoints for Law Enforcement Officers ft. Reuben Ramirez 08/08/2023

Episode 21 - Checkpoints for Law Enforcement Officers ft. Reuben Ramirez In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Reuben Ramirez, the esteemed Assistant Chief Of Police at the Dallas Police Department. With an impressive 28-year-long career in law enforcement, Reuben has played a pivotal role in shaping and strengthening the agency. During the past 18 months, Reuben has been passionately dedicated to developing a groundbreaking program aimed at improving mental wellness for law enforcement officers. Recognizing the immense stress and challenges faced by officers on the field, he understood the urgent need to provide support and resources for their well-being. This program stands as a beacon of hope and progress in addressing the mental health concerns within the law enforcement community. One of the key initiatives that Reuben spearheaded is the "Checkpoints" program. This innovative program was established to consistently check on officers who have been involved in traumatic calls for service. Traumatic incidents can have a profound impact on an officer's mental and emotional well-being, leading to long-term consequences if left unaddressed. "Checkpoints" ensures that officers receive the care and attention they need to process these experiences and prevent potential mental health challenges from escalating. Reuben shares inspiring stories of how the "Checkpoints" program has already made a significant difference in the lives of dozens of officers each month. By proactively addressing their mental health, the program has not only enhanced officer performance but also fostered a stronger sense of camaraderie and support within the department. If you're a fellow law enforcement officer or part of a law enforcement agency, this episode is a must-listen. Reuben offers valuable insights into the importance of mental wellness in a high-stress profession like law enforcement and provides practical advice on implementing similar programs in other agencies. To learn more about Reuben's incredible journey as a law enforcement leader and the transformative impact of the mental wellness program and "Checkpoints," be sure not to miss this episode. For those interested in reaching out to him for further information or collaboration, you can connect with Reuben Ramirez at or . Tune in and be inspired by Reuben Ramirez's dedication to building a safer and healthier law enforcement community. /episode/index/show/leofirst/id/27672924

Episode 20 - Hi Nguyen 08/01/2023

Episode 19 - Michael Sugrue 07/16/2023

Episode 18 - Bob Woolverton 07/18/2023

The LEO First Podcast

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