In this episode, we sit down with Sergeant Ryan Donovan and Master Deputy Jovi Santos from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team. They share insights into the purpose and history of SWAT, what their day-to-day job entails, and the camaraderie that makes the unit so unique. We also dive into the selection process, common misconceptions about SWAT, and an inside look at the annual SWAT Round-Up International competition.

• (0:00): Meeting Sgt. Donovan and MD Santos
• (2:15): Process for joining SWAT
• (4:00): How has SWAT changed over the years?
• (5:08): Explaining the origin of SWAT
• (6:36): How often is SWAT called on?
• (7:10): How big is our team?
• (7:33): What's it like when you first join?
• (9:22): Challenges and stresses of the job
• (10:10): Why is the job appealing?
• (12:36): What is a typical day like?
• (14:05): Sgt. Donovan shares some unfortunate stories
• (15:19): What is the most common call SWAT goes on?
• (15:48): What most commonly goes wrong?
• (16:36): Training is most of the job
• (17:50): Explaining the selection process
• (21:23): Camaraderie is important to the team
• (22:56): SWAT Round-up International
• (34:43): Mike Milmerstadt's legacy at the agency
• (35:38): How SWAT recruits
• (38:36): Common misconceptions about SWAT