Briefing Room Podcast

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Utah Highway Patrol Colonel Michael Rapich for a wide-ranging conversation about his 33-year career in law enforcement. Rapich reflects on the evolving threat environment facing public officials, how technology and data are reshaping highway safety, and what it takes to lead a statewide public-safety agency through rapid change. He also shares personal insights on knowing when it’s time to pass the baton, the legacy of service inspired by his father, and the future of policing in a more connected, complex world.

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves for a candid conversation about leadership, community safety, and the evolving challenges of modern policing. Chief Graves shares her journey from civilian records clerk to the first female chief of the Kansas City Police Department, discusses her leadership philosophy rooted in listening and servant leadership, and reflects on lessons learned from managing mass gatherings, including the tragic Super Bowl parade shooting. She also opens up about preparing for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, embracing innovation through public-private partnerships, and navigating complex issues such as drones, AI, and the rise of political violence—all while staying true to her Kansas City roots as a Chiefs fan and barbecue enthusiast.

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw for a wide-ranging discussion on tackling crime, community policing, and staying ahead of emerging threats. Chief Bercaw shares how Tampa achieved a dramatic drop in violent crime through its “Focus on Four” strategy, innovative programs targeting repeat offenders, and deep partnerships with the community. He also discusses managing large-scale events in today’s heightened security environment, leveraging cutting-edge technology like AI and drones, and prioritizing officer wellness to ensure a resilient police force.

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Sacramento Police Chief Katherine Lester for an inspiring and wide-ranging conversation. Chief Lester shares her remarkable journey from enlisting in the Army right out of high school to leading one of California’s largest police departments. She discusses her views on education requirements in policing, the critical role of 911 dispatchers, building partnerships with federal and state agencies, and navigating the political and technological challenges facing modern law enforcement. This candid discussion offers valuable insights into leadership, innovation, and the evolving nature of public safety.

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with National Fraternal Order of Police President Patrick Yoes to discuss the state of policing in America. Yoes reflects on the FOP’s membership growth during challenging times, the rise of ambush-style attacks on officers, and the importance of officer wellness and retention. He also addresses public perceptions of crime, the Protect and Serve Act, and how technology is reshaping law enforcement. This candid conversation highlights both the challenges and opportunities facing the profession today.

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Sheriff Mark Lamb for a candid conversation about border security, the growing threat of cartel-operated drones, and the challenges of immigration enforcement. Sheriff Lamb reflects on his years of frontline experience, the humanitarian crises tied to trafficking, and his philosophy of leadership rooted in his mantra, Fear Not, Do Right. He also shares the programs he’s most proud of from his time in office, including initiatives to support veterans, women, and at-risk youth, and introduces his new venture, Ten Seven, aimed at helping law enforcement officers and veterans transition into entrepreneurship.

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers talks with Chief Renee Hall, the first woman and first Black police chief of Dallas, and the new president of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE). Hall discusses the “great crime paradox,” where crime rates are low but public fear is driven by visible disorder, and stresses the need for community engagement. She highlights the lasting trauma of gun violence on both communities and officers, the stigma around mental health in policing, and her commitment to making it “okay not to be okay.” Hall also shares her experience navigating the challenges of being “Black and blue” and outlines her NOBLE priorities: officer wellness, responsible technology use, equitable policy, and advocacy for missing and murdered women and children of color.

In this powerful episode of The Briefing Room, Chief Bryan Rippee of the Texas Highway Patrol joins host Mike Wagers to reflect on the evolving challenges and innovations shaping modern law enforcement. From the rise of ambush-style attacks on officers to the integration of autonomous trucking, Chief Rippee shares a candid and passionate perspective informed by decades of public service, both in the military and on the front lines of Texas law enforcement. With topics ranging from advanced vehicle protections to AI-driven efficiencies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of public safety.

In this episode of The Briefing Room, Sheriff John Allen of Bernalillo County, New Mexico, joins Mike Wagers for a wide-ranging conversation on the challenges and realities of modern law enforcement. Sheriff Allen shares candid insights on rising officer-involved shootings in rural communities, the practical limitations of enforcing immigration policies, and the critical role of technology and training in policing. He also speaks openly about rebuilding trust with immigrant communities, combating human trafficking, and why “common sense” leadership matters now more than ever.

In this first episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers speaks with Chief Kevin Davis of the Fairfax County Police Department about encouraging trends in public safety. They discuss new Gallup data showing rising trust in local police among Black Americans, as well as Fairfax County’s survey efforts confirming this progress. Chief Davis highlights how proactive community engagement, smarter policing, and better use of technology are driving both improved public sentiment and a nationwide drop in violent crime. The conversation also touches on the sharp decline in officer fatalities, credited to improved training, evolving officer culture, and strategic use of less-lethal tools. Chief Davis shares insights from his career and emphasizes the importance of leadership, adaptation, and focusing on what truly makes communities safer—even if that means embracing pink handcuffs.