The CopDoc Podcast: Aiming for Excellence in Leadership

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!Season 6 - Episode 125Join the conversation with Dr. Grainne Perkins, a trailblazing Irish-born Chief of Police at the University of Southern Maine, whose career arc bends from zoology to the forefront of global law enforcement. Grainna shares her riveting story, a blend of detective work in Dublin's cobblestone alleys, innovative roles in Interpol, and her current tenure shaping the future of policing in the U.S. Her dynamic path showcases the wealth of opportunities within the policing profession and underscores the impact of an international perspective on law enforcement.Venture into the heart of police accountability with Grainne as she offers her candid thoughts on navigating the shift from the streets of Dublin to the academic corridors of Southern Maine. Tackling intricate communication challenges, she uncovers the layers of adapting an Irish accent for American listeners and the critical role of community trust. Grainne unravels the complexities of Seattle's hybrid police accountability system and reflects on the seismic changes in policing post-George Floyd. Her insight into the utilization of body-worn cameras reveals the delicate balance between technology and traditional investigative work, proving pivotal in the pursuit of justice.The epitome of a leader, Grainne delves into the nuances of guiding a police force with clarity and vision. She dissects the art of mentorship and the strategic development of officers, drawing parallels between the communicative Irish Garda and her experiences in North America. Her final thoughts touch on the essence of leadership, collaboration across borders, and the indelible mark one aspires to leave on the world. As we close, Grainne muses on the gratification that stems from aiding others and the conversations she yearns to have with historic trailblazers, illuminating the profound journey of a life dedicated to public service.Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com Website: www.copdocpodcast.comIf you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!Season 5 - Episode 124Embark on an intellectual exploration with me, Dr. Steve Morreale, as I sit down with Dr. Frank Schmalleger, a titan in the field of criminal justice education. His pioneering textbooks have shaped the landscape of learning for generations of law enforcement professionals. Throughout this episode, we discuss shifts in criminal justice from its early beginnings to the current era, where cybercrime and AI present new challenges. Frank's teaching philosophy, which marries relevance and problem-solving, alongside his views on the crucial role of leadership philosophy in policing, offers invaluable food for thought for current and future police leaders.Grapple with the complexities of evidence-based policing as we confront issues like black-on-black violence and the misuse of firearms in communities of color, dissecting the implications these have on media reporting and societal perception. Frank unpacks the nuanced concept of 'wokeness' within law enforcement and how it intertwines with the threads of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our conversation also ventures into the balancing act required between embracing diversity and fostering a cohesive societal consensus, all while keeping the criminal justice curriculum responsive to the rapidly evolving landscape of threats in the digital age.In a candid reflection, Frank opens up about the enduring legacy he aims to leave through his extensive written works and the transition from print to digital media. This episode is not just a look into the past but also a call to action for future collaborative writing ventures, promising to keep the flame of intellectual curiosity burning brightly. Join us for a dialogue that weaves through the fabric of criminal justice, leadership, societal dynamics, and the timeless craft of writing, ensuring you walk away with a richer understanding of the forces that shape our legal landscape.The episode closes with a poignant reflection on Frank Schmalleger's professional pride and legacy in publishing, addressing the shift from print to digital media and the importance of preserving academic works for future generations. The open invitation for collaborative writing endeavors encapsulates the spirit of continuous learning and intellectual growth that the episode champions.Overall, the podcast episode with Dr. Frank Schmalleger serves as a comprehensive dialogue on the dynamic and ever-evolving world of criminal justice. It promises to leave listeners with a richer understanding of the forces that shape our legal systems and the critical role of education, leadership, and technology in this domain.Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com Website: www.copdocpodcast.comIf you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!The CopDoc Podcast - Season 5 - Episode 123From the hard-knock streets of New York to the high-stakes realm of federal law enforcement, Pete Forcelli’s journey epitomizes the life of a quintessential lawman. This episode peels back the curtain on an illustrious career marked by courage and integrity, as Pete, a retired ATF executive and former NYPD homicide detective, recounts the days that forged his path. Together, we navigate through his vivid memories of community policing, the intricacies of transitioning from New York's finest to the ATF, and the leadership challenges that tested his mettle.Pete's tale takes a gripping turn as he recounts the emotional upheaval experienced during and after the September 11 attacks, and the profound partnerships between federal agents and prosecutors. His accounts provide a rare lens into the unspoken battles and survival instincts that come with the badge. As we probe deeper, Pete opens up about the perplexing inertia he encountered with the legal system in Phoenix and the unyielding pursuit of justice in the face of bureaucratic resistance—a true testament to the real-life grit over glamor in law enforcement.The episode crescendos with the heart-wrenching narrative of whistleblowers within the ranks, who risk everything in defiance of wrongdoing. Pete details the eye-opening saga of "Operation Fast and Furious" from his book and the chilling effects of whistle-blower retaliation, all while maintaining a resolve that commands respect. This conversation does more than recount a decorated career; it's an education in the sacrifices made behind the badge and the indelible legacy of a man whose convictions never wavered. Join us for an unforgettable glimpse into the life and lessons of Pete Forcelli, whose story is as impactful as it is instructive.Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com Website: www.copdocpodcast.comIf you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!Season 5 - Episode 122Join the conversation with James F. "Jim" Pastor, a former Chicago Police Officer turned author, as he unpacks the tumultuous atmosphere enveloping police leadership today. Our chat delves into ideologies that shape our society, touching on race, religion, and politics, and their effects on law enforcement. Pastor's book "You Say You Want a Revolution" serves as our backdrop, exposing the intense pressures officers face during societal upheaval and the forewarning of potential perils that lie ahead. It's a dialogue that transcends the pages, shedding light on the readiness required in these unpredictable times.Strap in for this deep discussion of policing's evolution over the past four decades, as we dissect the escalating police-involved incidents and the heart-wrenching rise in officer suicides. Pastor, with his multifaceted expertise, guides us through the socio-political minefields that today's officers must navigate, and we probe the contentious nature of modern-day politics, especially within the heated discussions of college campuses. The conversation extends to the necessity of public safety policing, as Pastor's insights challenge us to consider the alignment of policing practices with the core values of our communities.The chat ends as we tackle the relationship between patriotism and the challenges facing policing against the backdrop of globalism and its critique of nationalistic sentiments. Pastor illuminates the impact of political decisions on the ground, stressing the critical role of police leadership in steering officers through treacherous waters. It's a crucial discussion for those vested in the intersection of law enforcement and the fabric of our national identity, and Pastor doesn't shy away from the tough questions that confront the very essence of public safety.Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com Website: www.copdocpodcast.comIf you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!Season 5 - Episode 121Imagine feeling the weight of a family legacy on your shoulders as you step into a career safeguarding your community. That's the journey Captain Bill Walsh of the Voorhees Police Department shares with us, offering an unvarnished look at his path from a young police dispatcher to a vanguard of law enforcement innovation. Throughout our conversation, we talk about the complexities of policing in the shadows of Philadelphia, unveiling the department's edge with advanced resources and the criticality of community bonds for law enforcement success.Education has been a transformative force, and Bill  Walsh is a testament to this, tracing his evolution from a college dropout to an ardent believer in academic rigor within the police force. This episode peels back the layers on how evidence-based policing can reshape careers, presenting Captain Walsh's own narrative of embracing leadership literature, earning advanced degrees, and advocating for comprehensive officer wellness programs. His reflections on the mentorship that shaped his career underscore the profound impact of nurturing leadership within the ranks.As we talk about mental health and the integration of policing and academia, Bill highlights the often-unseen challenges faced by those behind the badge. The necessity for internal procedural justice, embracing open-mindedness, and adapting training to the adult learner model is just the tip of the iceberg. We also explore the symbiotic relationship between criminal justice education and practical policing, paving the way for a future where academic insights are harmoniously woven into the fabric of law enforcement operations. Join us for this compelling exploration of leadership, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of policing.Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com Website: www.copdocpodcast.comIf you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!Season 5 - Episode 120Ever wondered how the seemingly stern face of law enforcement could be humanized? We've got Chris Hsiung, the undersheriff of San Mateo County, sharing his own experiences and insights on this matter. A veteran with 28 years at the Mountain View Police Department, Hsiung believes in the power of social media to break down barriers and build stronger community relations. He walks through his journey and how he's used modern tools of communication to reshape public perception of law enforcement.Chris is co-founder of The Curve, to dive headfirst into the topic of police culture reform. This includes Simon Sinek and other forward-thinking police executives.  With a unique perspective on the importance of human skills and the power of difficult conversations, Hsiung is candid in discussing the need for a safe, positive work environment. He brings to the table his insights on leadership development and the unexpected value of book clubs in fostering camaraderie and changing police culture for the better. In our chat with Chris, he talks about leadership and decision-making in organizations. Sheriff Hsiung emphasizes the importance of intentional and inclusive decision-making, continuous innovation, and the crucial role of placing the right people in the right positions.Please listen for an enlightening conversation that offers a multifaceted look at law enforcement, leadership, and the road to a better future for law enforcement. #chrishsiung #SanMateoSheriff #MountqainViewPolice #TheCurve#SteveMorreale #TheCopDocPodcast #WorcesterStateUniversityContact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com Website: www.copdocpodcast.comIf you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!Season 6 - Episode 119Get ready to enter the mind of an expert in evidence-based policing, Dr. Lawrence Sherman, as he takes us on a journey of discovery in the realm of law enforcement.  A New Yorker in the UK.  As the Chief Scientific Officer for the Metropolitan Police and a professor emeritus at the University of Cambridge, his experiences are a treasure trove of valuable insights that promise to reshape your understanding of policing. Our discussion recounts his work with the New York City and Minneapolis Police Departments, exploring the implications of his research on corruption, domestic violence, and the use of deadly force.Larry talks about the potential for efficiency in law enforcement through strategic measures rooted in evidence-based policing. Imagine a world where crime concentration is used intelligently for resource allocation, where precision in policing aids informed decision-making. Dr. Sherman’s experiences with the Metropolitan Police bring this concept to life, amplifying the importance of measuring outcomes in tactics like stop and search. The discussion takes on the potential for national policy discussing the value of shared research access, the potential of police chief certification in evidence-based policing, and the intriguing concept of a national barred list for dismissed officers.We discussed the exciting potential for police reform and accreditation, drawing inspiration from the UK's inspector general system. We chat about the potential creation of an American College of Policing, designed to certify and train police chiefs, fostering evidence-based practices.  We ask what the future holds for evidence-based policing.  Larry discusses the role of social justice and prevention in shaping law enforcement. Join us for this discussion that shines a light on the future of policing and democracy, creating a path of evidence-based policing.Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com Website: www.copdocpodcast.comIf you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!TCD Podcast - Season 6 - Episode 118What does it truly mean to be a police officer in today's America? Can police departments adapt, innovate, and transform their culture to better serve their communities? Join us as we explore these questions with Dr. Neil Gross, a sociologist from Colby College and a former short-term law enforcement officer in California. We talk with him about the changing landscape of policing, spotlighting innovative police departments across the United States - from Stockton, California, LaGrange, Georgia, to Longmont, Colorado. In our chat, we discuss police and academia, tracing the evolution of this complex relationship over time. Neil takes us behind the curtain, revealing how social scientists have observed policing since the 50s and 60s, and the pervasive feeling of stigmatization within the police force. We also talk about the parallels and self-selection processes in both academia and law enforcement, and the reasons why professors and scientists may lean more liberal. In our chat with Dr. Gross, he shares some laudable efforts of police chiefs like Lou Deckmar, who transformed the LaGrange, Georgia police department with a steadfast commitment to the rule of law, equity, and professionalism. We also draw insights from Neil's experiences teaching sociology to undergraduates, sparking critical thinking and fostering open discussions about policing. This conversation is a great listen for anyone eager to grasp the complexities and opportunities within police departments today. Tune into The CopDoc Podcast!Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com Website: www.copdocpodcast.comIf you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!TCD Podcast - Encore Episode 117  - Julie Parker What if you could transform public perception of law enforcement agencies with the power of effective communication? This riveting episode takes a deep dive into the world of police media relations with our esteemed guest, Julie Parker, former ABC Washington News reporter and current CEO of Julie Parker Communication. With her extensive experience working with top-tier law enforcement agencies like the FBI and IACP, she brings a wealth of knowledge on proactive social media use and crisis communication.As we explore social media's role in law enforcement, Julie talks about how agencies can steer narratives and shape news rather than merely reacting to it. We also delve into the crucial role of media relations directors and PIOs in providing timely, accurate information during incidents. Sprinkled with insights from her professional journey, Julie shares how law enforcement agencies can leverage social media to promote positive stories, humanize the police force, and build stronger relationships with the media.In the final segment, we turn our focus toward the importance of proactive communication during crises, especially for smaller departments operating on limited budgets. Julie lays bare some of her trade secrets on creating a deep bench within the department and building robust relationships with the media. We also touch upon the growing trend of retaining crisis communication consultants and the immeasurable value of sharing uplifting stories. So tune in and discover how law enforcement can maintain public trust through effective communication. It’s a conversation you won’t want to miss.Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com Website: www.copdocpodcast.comIf you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com

Hey there! Send us a message. Who else should we be talking to? What topics are important? Use FanMail to connect! Let us know!The CopDoc Podcast - Season 6 - Episode 116Have you ever wondered how the intricate world of social media and public relations intertwine with law enforcement? Let’s unravel this with guest, Katie Nelson, from the Mountain View California Police Department. Katie moved from a career in journalism to managing social media and PR for the police force. She navigates the digital landscape of Silicon Valley, keeping accurate, timely communication with the community and efficiently managing the risks of online posting.Our discussions took us on a journey into Katie's transition from journalism to policing. Her tales from her ride-along with a Narc unit, witnessing a friend and fellow officer wounded in the line of duty, and investigating the Speed Freak Killers. We delved into the crucial role of home security footage in police work and the unexpected challenges it can pose.The conversation turned toward the future of law enforcement as we explored the implications of artificial intelligence. Katie shared some fascinating insights about the potential pitfalls of AI and how Mountain View PD is approaching this emergent technology. If you're curious about the intersection of social media, public relations, and law enforcement, this episode is a must-listen. It's not just about the nitty-gritty of police work, but also about the humanity behind the badge.Contact us: copdoc.podcast@gmail.com Website: www.copdocpodcast.comIf you'd like to arrange for facilitated training, or consulting, or talk about steps you might take to improve your leadership and help in your quest for promotion, contact Steve at stephen.morreale@gmail.com