The Coptimizer Podcast

In this episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, Patrick Flannelly sits down with Lou Barani, nationally recognized security expert and advisor to Davista Technologies and Hive Logic, for a cutting-edge discussion on how AI is transforming threat detection and public safety. From school security to large-scale events like the Olympics, Lou walks us through how integrated, AI-driven platforms are proactively identifying risks and automating threat responses — including active shooter prevention, predictive policing, and real-time threat assessment. If you’re in law enforcement, school administration, or private security — or simply someone who believes safety and innovation should go hand in hand — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. 🔑 Topics include: The integration of Davista and Hive Logic technologies How AI can identify at-risk individuals before incidents occur Applications of AI in law enforcement, schools, and large public events The role of predictive analytics in reducing response times Why embracing tech is essential for modern public safety Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this engaging discussion, crime analyst Jeff Asher shares his journey from the CIA to transforming policing in New Orleans through data. He reveals how innovative staffing and technology reduced police response times from 180 to just 50-60 minutes. Jeff discusses the vital role of analysts in leadership for better decision-making and the importance of civilian roles in freeing officers for critical tasks. He also emphasizes the limits of AI and the need for accurate crime reporting to build community trust and enhance safety. A must-listen for anyone interested in modern policing.

In this powerful episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, host Patrick Flannelly sits down with Chief Chad McCluskey of the Waukee, Iowa Police Department for a conversation that bridges bricks, badges, and bold leadership. With a career that began in fire services and evolved into law enforcement leadership, Chief McCluskey brings a multidisciplinary perspective to modern policing. We explore his journey from Kansas to Iowa, including the unique challenges and victories of designing and building a $43 million state-of-the-art police facility focused on wellness, sustainability, and employee mental health. From geothermal heating systems to natural light-infused workspaces and fully equipped gyms, this is more than a building—it’s a blueprint for the future of public safety infrastructure. Chief McCluskey also shares key leadership lessons, including the importance of continuous education, mentorship, and participation in professional associations like the Iowa Chiefs of Police. With insights on recruitment, public safety integration, and practical advice for new leaders, this episode offers a thoughtful blend of real-world application and visionary strategy. Whether you’re a law enforcement leader, city planner, or wellness advocate, this conversation delivers actionable inspiration and a call to invest in the people who protect our communities. Books Recommended by Chief McCluskey: Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink The Arsonist in the Office by Pete Havel Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, Patrick Flannelly sits down with retired Chief of Police Doug Shoemaker for an honest conversation about wellness, leadership, and the evolving challenges of modern policing. Doug reflects on his 33-year career that began in Jefferson City, Missouri, and shares how pivotal moments like Ferguson and George Floyd reshaped law enforcement. Together, Patrick and Doug tackle the often-overlooked importance of police leaders prioritizing their own health, including using measurable metrics like insulin resistance to evaluate wellness. The discussion highlights: Wellness & Leadership: Why chiefs and command staff must take care of themselves first to better lead their officers. The “Eight Minutes” Code: The value of trusted peer networks and having people you can call when leadership feels isolating. The Curve: Doug’s work with this leadership development initiative is designed to strengthen culture and create mission-driven leaders in policing. Small Agency Challenges: With 80% of U.S. departments having fewer than 25 officers, Doug emphasizes the need for shared best practices and support networks. Technology & Efficiency: His current work with Peregrine involves helping agencies integrate data to free officers for proactive policing. Shared Connections: The conversation closes on a lighter note, with Patrick and Doug bonding over their mutual passion for bourbon, underscoring the importance of relationships and shared experiences beyond the badge. This episode is a candid exploration of what it means to survive and thrive in policing—both in the chief’s chair and in life after retirement.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful and honest episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, Chief Chad Dick shares his life-changing journey through The Chiefs Reset—a four-month metabolic health pilot program designed specifically for law enforcement professionals in Indiana. As a veteran of the Indiana State Police and now Chief of Police in Jasper, Indiana, Chad opens up about the silent epidemic affecting police officers: insulin resistance and its wide-reaching impact on health, performance, and longevity. Through a combination of lab testing, low-carb nutrition, fasting protocols, and consistent accountability, Chad not only transformed his physical health but also redefined his approach to leadership and wellness. This is not just a story about weight loss—it’s about leading from the front, building resilient departments, and rethinking how we care for our most valuable resource: our people. Top 10 Takeaways from This Conversation: Insulin Resistance is a Hidden CrisisEspecially dangerous in high-stress professions like policing, it often remains undetected until serious illness sets in. Early Detection Saves LivesComprehensive lab testing, such as the LPIR score, can identify risk years before symptoms appear. Lifestyle Changes Are PowerfulChad reduced his LPIR score from 70 to 12 through nutrition and fasting—without any medication. Departments Are Missing the MarkMost law enforcement agencies still lack structured wellness and metabolic health programs. Food Matters More Than FitnessThe program emphasizes that roughly 80% of health outcomes are driven by nutrition. Metabolic Health Equals Operational ReadinessBetter metabolic health results in improved focus, energy, and emotional resilience. Personal Accountability Drives ChangeChad logged his meals, measured ketones, and relied on peer support to stay consistent. Genetics Must Be ConsideredGenetic factors like LP(a) contribute to cardiovascular risk—knowing your numbers is essential. Prevention Is More Cost-Effective Than Crisis CareInvesting in prevention helps avoid costly outcomes like diabetes, heart disease, and extended sick leave. Health is HolisticThis is not a crash diet. It’s a long-term metabolic restoration program rooted in science and sustainability. Whether you’re a chief of police, a wellness coordinator, or a decision-maker in public safety, this episode offers a transformational roadmap grounded in science and lived experience. Discover how optimizing one leader can impact an entire department—and why The Chiefs Reset could be the key to boosting officer health, morale, and performance for years to come. Listen now at TheCoptimizer.com or on your favorite podcast platform. Interested in joining The Chiefs Reset? Reach out to learn how your agency can participate in the next cohort. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“What if we treated our first responders like professional athletes?” In this powerful episode, retired Chief Patrick Flannelly welcomes Alec Wons, founder of Ready Rebound and a former strength coach for NFL athletes, for a raw and solution-driven conversation on the urgent need to transform how we support the physical and mental health of first responders. Alec’s mission is deeply personal—and deeply necessary. He draws from elite sports performance, business innovation, and personal tragedy to reimagine recovery and resilience for those who protect and serve. From expedited injury recovery to mental health resources, Alec lays out a compelling blueprint for how agencies can support their people before burnout, injury, or tragedy takes its toll. Together, Patrick and Alec explore: Why traditional wellness programs fail—and what actually works The hidden cost of shift work and outdated injury protocols How trauma, stress, and musculoskeletal injuries silently erode performance and morale Why systemic change is needed to treat officers like high-performing tactical athletes The leadership imperative: How chiefs can drive meaningful culture change Whether you’re a chief, union leader, wellness coordinator, or an officer trying to stay in the fight, this episode will change the way you think about health, recovery, and human performance in public safety. Plus: Learn how Alec’s new book and his work with fire and police departments nationwide are creating momentum for a better future—and why now is the time to act. 🧩 It’s not just about surviving the job—it’s about bouncing back stronger. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this gripping episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, retired ATF Deputy Assistant Director and 9/11 responder Peter Forcelli joins host Patrick Flannelly for an unfiltered conversation about the untold story behind Operation Fast and Furious—one of the most controversial federal operations in U.S. law enforcement history. With firsthand insights, Forcelli debunks political myths and explains how a poorly managed, local operation spiraled out of control, endangering lives and undermining trust in federal agencies. But this episode goes far deeper than headlines. Together, Patrick and Peter explore: The infighting and dysfunction that plague federal law enforcement systems How Peter’s decision to blow the whistle led to years of surveillance, stress, and professional exile The personal toll of high-stakes policing, from PTSD to post-9/11 cancer, and the painful journey to seek help Real talk about law enforcement leadership—what integrity looks like when the system doesn’t have your back A hard look at the cost of silence, the power of standing up for what’s right, and how agencies fail when accountability is absent Whether you’re a cop, a policymaker, or just someone who cares about the truth behind the badge, this episode pulls back the curtain on how broken systems affect real people—and what it takes to lead and survive with honor. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kenneth Strange Jr. is a former FBI agent and author, who shares his extraordinary journey from teaching in Saudi Arabia to tackling global fraud and counterterrorism. He discusses his harrowing early encounters with terrorism and his role in high-profile investigations like the “House of Death” case in Juarez. Ken emphasizes the importance of balance and spiritual wellness for first responders. He narrates personal adventures and challenges during international assignments, highlighting how diverse experiences shaped his remarkable career and insights into global justice.

Chief Scott Hughes, the Chief of Police in Hamilton Township, Ohio, and a national trainer for Caliber Press, offers a fresh take on modern policing. He discusses the vital role of officer wellness, emphasizing mental health resources and on-duty fitness programs. The conversation delves into innovative policing practices, enhancing community trust, and the importance of storytelling in leadership. Hughes also highlights the need for collaboration among law enforcement agencies and addresses the challenges officers face today, portraying a proactive vision for the future of policing.

In this deeply thoughtful episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, Patrick Flannelly is joined by Erik Hein, a resilience expert and international trainer from the Netherlands, whose journey from hardship to high-performance leadership offers lessons for police professionals everywhere. Erik opens up about his difficult upbringing — losing his father to cancer, growing up on the streets, and building himself up through martial arts and academic discipline. From these roots, Erik has forged a career in law enforcement training that blends resilience, mental skills, and tactical fitness with a global outlook on modern policing. Together, Patrick and Erik examine: Mental toughness and the “soul over force” philosophy How learned helplessness shows up in policing Lessons from European police academies The U.S. attrition crisis and recruitment gaps How to foster supportive environments that build officer resilience The value of mentorship, wisdom transfer, and lifelong fitness Erik also shares details about his book and his commitment to helping the next generation of law enforcement leaders build strength from the inside out. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.