Talk'n the Beat

In the latest episode of "Talk'n the Beat," Officers Larry Reynolds and Kevin Coates have an engaging conversation with City Manager Mark Vanderpool, offering listeners an inside look at the dynamic efforts that keep Sterling Heights running smoothly. From the critical work of the city’s dedicated police and fire departments to the incredible volunteer participation that sets the city apart, this episode highlights the people and initiatives that make Sterling Heights a vibrant and safe place to live.

The discussion also covers the role of parks and economic development in enhancing the community, along with an overview of the Pathway to Play and Preservation millage, which is on the November 5th ballot. As the conversation wraps up, Vanderpool shares an interesting story about making an emergency landing in an alfalfa field on the west side of Michigan, adding an unexpected twist to the episode.

Send Your Questions to Officers Larry and Kevin!
Email us at [email protected] and your question may be used in an upcoming podcast episode.

In this milestone 25th episode of "Talk'n the Beat," Officers Larry Reynolds and Kevin Coates sit down with Captain Mario Bastianelli to discuss making a difference in the community through innovative policing strategies.

Captain Bastianelli's journey in the Sterling Heights Police Department began in traffic before eventually rising through the ranks to Lieutenant, where he served as the department's Public Information Officer. In that role, he worked diligently to represent the department with pride and honor, ensuring the public saw the positive contributions of Sterling Heights police officers.

Now overseeing Operations as a Captain, Bastianelli reflects on his career and shares his approach to addressing problems from new angles. He played a key role in developing the Quick Response Team, designed to break the cycle of drug overdoses by providing immediate assistance to those struggling with addiction. This initiative led to the creation of the Redirect Program, which pauses criminal cases related to drug use to offer offenders a chance to break free from their addiction. By targeting the root cause of crimes such as theft and burglary, the Redirect Program aims to reduce these offenses by addressing the underlying addiction issues.

Join Officers Reynolds and Coates for an insightful conversation with Captain Mario Bastianelli, exploring the innovative approaches being implemented to improve community safety and support individuals in breaking the cycle of addiction. Discover the impact of these programs and the dedication of the Sterling Heights Police Department to fostering a safer, healthier community.

Send Your Questions to Officers Larry and Kevin!
Email us at [email protected] and your question may be used in an upcoming podcast episode.

In the latest episode of "Talk’n the Beat," Officers Larry Reynolds and Kevin Coates sit down with their new boss, Sgt. Michael Zawojsky, a seasoned officer with a remarkable story of resilience and dedication to his hometown of Sterling Heights. Joining the police force in 1999 after participating in the explorer program as a teenager, Sgt. Zawojsky's early career was marked by a dramatic incident where his patrol vehicle was struck by a bank robbery suspect, causing a severe accident that nearly ended his career—and his life.

Miraculously recovering from a significant head injury, Sgt. Zawojsky returned to the force with renewed determination. Now, with over 25 years of service, he steps into a leadership role within the Community Services Bureau.

This episode delves into Sgt. Zawojsky's inspiring journey, highlighting his contributions to the community and his continued commitment to the city where he grew up.

Send Your Questions to Officers Larry and Kevin!
Email us at [email protected] and your question may be used in an upcoming podcast episode.

In this episode of "Talk'n the Beat," Officers Larry Reynolds and Kevin Coates sit down with Pastor Wesley Woods, one of the Sterling Heights Police Department's two police chaplains, for an inspiring conversation.

Pastor Woods shares his story of growing up in a rough neighborhood in Detroit, where his parents broadened his horizons by exposing him to a wider world of possibilities. This positive foundation has stayed with him throughout his life and now fuels his mission at Heritage Church to inspire and support others. As a chaplain, Pastor Woods helps officers process the challenging situations they face daily, encouraging healthy coping mechanisms and preventing self-destructive behaviors.

Join us as we explore the invaluable role of police chaplains like Pastor Wesley Woods, who bring compassion, understanding, and spiritual guidance to the Sterling Heights Police Department and the community.

Send Your Questions to Officers Larry and Kevin!
Email us at [email protected] and your question may be used in an upcoming podcast episode.

In this compelling episode of "Talk’n the Beat," Officers Larry Reynolds and Kevin Coates engage with Scott Gatto, a former Marine whose service commenced dramatically on the morning of September 11, 2001, as he arrived at his base in Hawaii. His challenging deployment to Iraq, which included fierce combat in Falluja, was just the beginning of his journey.

After leaving the service, Scott became acutely aware of the pervasive mental health struggles among his fellow Marines, many of whom were succumbing to the pressures through tragic means. Moved by their struggles and the insufficient support from the VA, he founded "Reunite the Fight." This vital organization, founded by veterans of intense combat in Fallujah, is dedicated to reducing veteran suicides through reunions, retreats, and ongoing support. These events do more than just bring veterans together; they restore the deep connections made in service, providing emotional and practical support, including job placements and counseling.

In this first installment of a two-part series, Scott shares his profound experiences in the military, the formation of his nonprofit, and its crucial mission: to ensure no veteran feels alone in their battle back home.

For more details on Scott’s initiative and how it is making a difference, visit Reunite the Fight.

Send Your Questions to Officers Larry and Kevin!
Email us at [email protected] and your question may be used in an upcoming podcast episode.

In the latest episode of "Talk'n the Beat," Officers Kevin Coates and Larry Reynolds sit down with Jeremiah Campbell, Treasurer on the executive board of Facing Addiction Now (FAN). Jeremiah's journey is one of resilience and hope, as he shares his personal story of overcoming addiction and loss.

As one of the founding members of FAN, Jeremiah has been sober since July 2007 and is deeply involved in the recovery community. Inspired by his late brother Kyle, who tragically lost his life to addiction, Jeremiah's mission is to inspire and guide others to live to their full potential.

During the intense discussion, Jeremiah opens up about his struggles with addiction as a teenager and the profound impact it had on his life. He reflects on the importance of finding a way out of addiction and being there for others when they are ready to seek help. Moreover, he shares insights into his journey of self-discovery, the courage to adapt, and the power of embracing change.

Join Officers Coates and Reynolds as they delve into this heartfelt conversation with Jeremiah Campbell, exploring themes of resilience, recovery, and the transformative power of hope. Discover how Facing Addiction Now is making a difference in communities and providing support for those affected by addiction.

For more information about Facing Addiction Now and their initiatives, visit their website at Families Against Narcotics.

Send Your Questions to Officers Larry and Kevin!
Email us at [email protected] and your question may be used in an upcoming podcast episode.

In this episode of "Talk'n the Beat," Officers Larry Reynolds and Kevin Coates sit down with 41A District Court Chief Judge Stephen S. Sierawski. Judge Sierawski, elected in 1998, brings a wealth of experience and insight to the discussion. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame and Wayne State University Law School, he has dedicated his career to serving the community and upholding justice.

Throughout the episode, Judge Sierawski shares personal anecdotes and reflections on his life journey, including his time at Notre Dame, where he also pursued his passion for boxing. From his experiences in the military to his current role as Chief Judge since 2023, he offers valuable insights into his belief in the impact he can make from the district court bench.

Join Officers Reynolds and Coates as they engage in an enlightening dialogue with Judge Stephen S. Sierawski, exploring his remarkable life experiences and enduring dedication to serving others.

Send Your Questions to Officers Larry and Kevin!
Email us at [email protected] and your question may be used in an upcoming podcast episode.

In this special episode of 'Talk'n the Beat,' Officers Kevin Coates and Larry Reynolds step outside their usual topics to chat with Shaina Allen, the owner and operator of Scooters Coffee. Drawing on the old-fashioned notion of 'walking the beat,' where police officers would engage with local business owners, Officers Coates and Reynolds sit down for an insightful discussion with Shaina Allen. Through her experiences running Scooters Coffee, Shaina shares valuable insights into the importance of community connections, customer service, and making a positive impact. Together they dive deeply into the philosophy of serving others, pursuing one's passion, and giving back to the community.

Send Your Questions to Officers Larry and Kevin!
Email us at [email protected] and your question may be used in an upcoming podcast episode.

In this episode of "Talk'n the Beat," Officers Larry Reynolds and Kevin Coates take a break from hosting guests to dive into a long-awaited question and answer session. Having gathered inquiries from residents throughout the first season, and now well into Season 2, the guys are eager to address a range of topics sent in by the audience. With no subject dismissed as too light or heavy, the officers share their candid responses, adding their personal touch to keep the conversation engaging and laid-back.

Join Officers Reynolds and Coates as they explore these questions, sharing laughs and insights along the way, making this installment both informative and entertaining.

Send Your Questions to Officers Larry and Kevin!
Email us at [email protected] and your question may be used in an upcoming podcast episode.

In this episode of "Talk'n the Beat," Officers Larry Reynolds and Kevin Coates sit down with Sergeant Lamar Kashat from the Sterling Heights Police Department’s Directed Patrol Unit (DPU). Together, they delve into the proactive policing methods employed by the DPU and the importance of effective communication in leadership.

Sergeant Kashat's upbringing in Saginaw by Iraqi immigrant parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and values, which he brings to his role in law enforcement. His fluency in both English and Aramaic has proven invaluable in serving the diverse community of Sterling Heights.

Drawing from his experiences, transitioning from a small police department to the SHPD, Sergeant Kashat provides unique insights into the benefits of working at the SHPD. The conversation also includes intriguing anecdotes that underscore the unpredictable nature of police work.

Join Officers Reynolds and Coates as they engage in an enlightening discussion with Sergeant Lamar Kashat, exploring proactive policing strategies, leadership principles, cultural diversity, and intriguing tales from the field.

Send Your Questions to Officers Larry and Kevin!
Email us at [email protected] and your question may be used in an upcoming podcast episode.