Deputy Inspector Patrick Esser of the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office has spent more than 26 years in law enforcement—and he’s on a mission to change the way leaders think. In this episode, he shares how the culture has shifted from a rigid “warrior” mindset to a more empathetic “guardian” approach, why emotional intelligence is the missing tool in many officers’ careers, and how mid-career negativity nearly derailed him before humility and self-awareness brought him back. From mentoring the next generation to founding Esser Growth Principles, Esser’s message is clear: leadership starts with communication, curiosity, and knowing yourself.