Chief Mike Hawkins and Chief Scott Hughes sit down with Jeremy Story, Chief of the Las Cruces Police Department, for a real, candid conversation about leadership, growth, and the realities of modern policing.

In this episode, we talk about:

✅ Jeremy’s path into law enforcement and his transition into the chief’s role✅ The early challenges every new chief faces (and what he learned the hard way)✅ Why progressive leadership, transparency, and advocacy matter now more than ever✅ Community engagement and the impact of juvenile crime✅ Officer wellness programs and innovative training approaches✅ The power of mentorship for new and aspiring chiefs

Jeremy also shares where he’s taking his department next, and what future initiatives look like in Las Cruces.

If you’re a police leader, supervisor, or anyone interested in where policing is headed, this one’s worth your time.

In this episode of the Two Chiefs One Mic podcast, Chief Mike Hawkins and Scott Hughes welcome Kirk Dinkheller, father of fallen officer Kyle Dinkheller, who was tragically killed during a traffic stop in 1998. Kirk shares the story of his son, the events leading up to the incident, and the impact it has had on law enforcement training and culture. The conversation delves into the court proceedings following Kyle's death, the emotional toll on Kirk and the community, and the importance of remembering and learning from Kyle's story to ensure the safety of officers today.

In this episode of the Two Chiefs One Mic Podcast, hosts Mike Hawkins and Scott Hughes welcome Chief Jay Gerace of the Colonie, New York, Police Department to discuss innovative training methods to improve officer safety during traffic stops. The conversation highlights the importance of practical training, the need for policy changes, and the impact of real-life scenarios on officer behavior. Chief Gerace shares insights into his department's training programs, emphasizing the need to adapt training to prevent incidents such as officers jumping in front of moving vehicles. The episode concludes with key takeaways for law enforcement leaders on enhancing training effectiveness and ensuring officer safety.

Links:

https://www.police1.com/police-leader-playbook/the-leadership-beat-there-is-a-fundamental-difference-between-mistakes-and-misconduct

Title: Fireproofing Your Workplace: Insights from Pete Havel on Combating Toxic Employees

Introduction:

In today's fast-paced work environment, toxic employees can wreak havoc on organizations, draining morale and hindering productivity. In a recent episode of the Two Chiefs, One Mic podcast, host Scott Hughes converses with Pete Havel, author of "The Arsonist in the Office," who shares invaluable insights on identifying and dealing with these workplace arsonists. This blog post will explore key takeaways from their conversation, highlighting strategies to cultivate a healthier workplace.

Understanding the Problem: The Inspiration Behind the Book

Pete Havel's journey to writing "The Arsonist in the Office" stemmed from his experiences in a challenging work environment. He likens toxic employees to arsonists, igniting chaos and undermining organizational culture. Havel emphasizes that the inspiration for his book came from a desire to make sense of these difficult situations and help others navigate similar challenges. His unique perspective, coming from the private sector rather than law enforcement, allows him to identify universal problems faced by organizations across different fields.

Identifying Toxic Employees: The Signs to Look For

One of the podcast's main discussions revolves around recognizing the signs of toxicity in the workplace. Havel points out that while some toxic employees are easy to identify, others may be hidden in plain sight. Key indicators of toxic behavior include:

- High absenteeism rates and frequent sick time usage.

- Negative attitudes that affect team morale.

- Generating citizen complaints or causing issues that trigger early warning systems.

- Lack of engagement or participation in team discussions.

- Leadership statements that discourage open communication and accountability.

Moreover, Havel notes that those in leadership positions often overlook these signs due to fear of confrontation or potential backlash. He stresses the importance of addressing these issues head-on, as inaction can allow toxic behaviors to proliferate.

The Role of Leadership in Combatting Toxicity

Effective leadership is crucial in fostering a positive workplace culture. Havel argues that weak leadership often enables toxic behaviors to flourish. Leaders must be willing to confront difficult employees and create an environment where accountability is the norm. He encourages leaders to be proactive in addressing toxicity, even if it means risking their own comfort. By doing so, they can leave a legacy of positive change within their organization.

Creating a Healthy Workplace Culture

Havel provides listeners with actionable advice on how to cultivate a positive workplace culture. This includes:

- Leading by example and modeling the behavior expected from employees.

- Engaging with team members, encouraging open dialogue, and addressing concerns promptly.

- Recognizing and rewarding positive contributions, thereby reinforcing desired behaviors.

- Providing necessary resources and support to help employees thrive.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

In conclusion, the conversation between Scott Hughes and Pete Havel sheds light on the critical issue of toxic employees in the workplace. By recognizing the signs of toxicity and taking decisive action, leaders can create a healthier and more productive work environment. The key takeaways include the importance of strong leadership, open communication, and a commitment to fostering a positive culture. As organizations navigate the challenges of managing personnel, it is vital to prioritize the well-being of all employees, ensuring they have the tools and support to succeed.

Introduction: In a world where hustle often overshadows health, the importance of sleep is frequently overlooked. In a recent episode of the Two Chiefs, One Mic podcast, hosts Scott Hughes and Michael Hawkins engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Leah Kaylor, a licensed clinical psychologist for the FBI and author of the enlightening book "If Sleep Were a Drug." This conversation sheds light on the profound impact of sleep on wellness, particularly in high-stress professions such as law enforcement.

The Significance of Sleep in Law Enforcement: During the podcast, Dr. Kaylor emphasizes that sleep is not merely a period of inactivity; it is a vital function for our brain and body. She notes that many police officers suffer from chronic sleep deprivation, which can severely impair decision-making and increase the likelihood of errors in judgment. As Scott Hughes points out, tired officers can lead to an increase in citizen complaints and use-of-force incidents. Dr. Kaylor argues that a culture shift in law enforcement is required to prioritize sleep, which is often dismissed as a luxury rather than a necessity.

The Brain's Nightly Clean-Up: One of the most striking revelations from Dr. Kaylor is how the brain cleans itself during deep sleep. She describes this process as a "brain carwash," where cerebral spinal fluid flushes away toxins and misfolded proteins that accumulate throughout the day. Without sufficient sleep, this critical cleaning process is disrupted, leading to long-term health issues, including neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. This analogy highlights the detrimental effects of neglecting sleep and serves as a wake-up call to officers who often sacrifice rest for the sake of their work.

Individuals working the Night Shift: Many police officers work night shifts, which can further complicate their sleep patterns. Dr. Kaylor advises that those on night shifts need to be even more proactive about maintaining good sleep hygiene. She points out that our biology is still wired for daytime activity, making it essential for night workers to create a conducive sleep environment during the day. The podcast emphasizes that sleep deprivation in night-shift workers can increase the risk of serious health issues, including cancer, underscoring the need for proper sleep strategies.

Sleep Deprivation and Performance: The conversation also delves into the alarming effects of sleep deprivation on performance and safety in law enforcement. Dr. Kaylor draws a parallel between the effects of sleep deprivation and intoxication, noting that when officers are deprived of sleep, their cognitive functions decline significantly. This decline can lead to poor decision-making, decreased reaction times, and ultimately, increased risks to public safety. The podcast calls for a reevaluation of how sleep is regarded in law enforcement, advocating for policies that support proper rest for officers.

Conclusion: The insights shared by Dr. Leah Kaylor in this podcast episode serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of sleep in maintaining not only our health but also our professional efficacy. As law enforcement professionals face unprecedented pressures, prioritizing sleep can no longer be an afterthought. The key takeaways are clear: sleep is essential for optimal brain function, decision-making, and promoting overall wellness. By fostering a culture that values rest, we can enhance not only the lives of officers but also the communities they serve.

In this episode, Jessica Flores shares her journey from law enforcement to wellness advocacy, discussing the challenges faced by officers, the importance of mental health, and the need for supportive communities. She emphasizes the significance of identity beyond the badge and the impact of leadership on officer well-being. Jessica also highlights her initiatives to create spaces for officers to share their stories and support one another, ultimately aiming to foster a healthier police culture.

In this episode of the Two Chiefs, One Mic podcast, Scott Hughes and Jim Cook discuss the importance of a tech-free morning routine for public safety leaders. Jim shares his experiences as the Assistant Chief of Police for the Amtrak Police Department and how adopting the 'One Hour Rule' has transformed his leadership style and personal wellness. They explore the psychological effects of technology on decision-making, the benefits of exercise, and the importance of creating a positive work culture. Jim emphasizes the need for leaders to step back and allow their teams to operate without micromanagement, ultimately leading to better outcomes for everyone involved.

In this episode of the Two Chiefs, One Mic podcast, hosts Scott Hughes and Michael Hawkins sit down with Chief Jay Gerace to discuss innovative approaches to community policing, with a particular focus on serving vulnerable populations.

Chief Gerace shares insights on how his department utilizes GIS technology to provide officers with critical information about individuals in crisis, enhancing officer safety and community trust. The conversation highlights real-life applications of these strategies, the importance of community engagement, and the implementation of such programs in police departments.

The episode highlights the importance of improved communication and understanding between law enforcement and the communities they serve, ultimately aiming to reduce the use of force and enhance outcomes in high-stress situations.

In this episode, Scott Hughes and Michael Hawkins welcome Deputy Chief Andrew Starzec from the Brownstown Police Department to discuss innovative community engagement strategies. They explore various initiatives, including the Lucas Foundation, programs for autism awareness, and the Faith in Blue initiative. Andrew shares insights on building relationships with diverse communities, tracking success in community engagement, and the importance of trust in law enforcement. The conversation highlights the significance of proactive engagement and the positive impact it has on community relations.

Thanks to Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio President Jay McDonald for sitting down with us to talk about the recent ambush attack on officers in Lorain, Ohio.
Jay brought insight, honesty, and passion as we discussed:
🔹 The increasing violence targeting law enforcement
🔹 How political rhetoric impacts officer morale and safety
🔹 Why initiatives like 𝙋𝒓𝙤𝒕𝙚𝒄𝙩 𝙊𝒉𝙞𝒐 𝑷𝙤𝒍𝙞𝒄𝙚 matter