The LEO First Podcast

In this episode of The LEO First Podcast, we feature Detective Erika Kirk, who has been with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) since 2005. Erika’s career began as a patrol officer and quickly transitioned to Vice operations, including roles in the Prostitution Enforcement Detail and the elite Citywide Human Trafficking Unit. Her expertise in investigating gang-related crimes grew during her time with the Valley Bureau's Violent Crime Task Force. Erika's leadership skills were honed further during her five years as a Senior Lead Officer in Van Nuys, focusing on community engagement and combating prostitution and human trafficking. Now a Detective II in the Officers' Representation Section, Erika continues her impactful work in major assault crimes. She is also actively involved in the Los Angeles Women Police Officers and Associates and serves as a board member of Cover Now, supporting officers in crisis.

#LawEnforcementLeadership #CommunityEngagement #HumanTraffickingAwareness #PublicSafety #WomenInLawEnforcement

In this episode of The LEO First Podcast, we feature Paul Butler, a retired law enforcement executive with over 27 years of experience. Renowned for his expertise in leadership, teamwork, and motivation, Paul has transitioned from a successful career in law enforcement to founding Paul Butler Presentations. His mission is to make a positive impact on others by delivering engaging, informative, and entertaining presentations. Paul’s passion for helping individuals and organizations grow shines through in his work, as he focuses on making every event memorable and impactful.

#LeadershipDevelopment #Teamwork #MotivationalSpeaking #EventPlanning #PersonalGrowth

In this episode of The LEO First Podcast, we feature Colin Whittington, whose life mission is to support America's Veterans and First Responders in their transition to fulfilling private-sector careers. After a distinguished career in law enforcement, including being named Virginia Deputy Sheriff of the Year in 2019, Colin founded Recruiting Heroes LLC in 2022. This employment agency focuses on connecting Veterans and First Responders with exceptional job opportunities, offering services like resume writing, LinkedIn profile optimization, and career coaching. Colin is also the author of Beyond the Thin Blue Line, a best-selling guide for those transitioning from law enforcement or military service. Through his work, Colin continues to honor those who have served by helping them thrive in their post-service careers.

#CareerTransition #VeteranSupport #FirstResponderCareers #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerCoaching

In this episode of The LEO First Podcast, we feature Chris Hoyer, a retired Arizona police officer with over 20 years of experience on the streets. Born and raised in New England, Chris has been a protector, survivor, and advocate for mental, physical, and emotional wellness throughout his career. Now, as an author and public speaker, Chris shares his experiences to help the law enforcement community prepare for the trauma that accompanies the job. His book, When That Day Comes: Training for the Fight, offers essential insights on tactics, preparation, and survival for first responders, military personnel, and anyone facing life's challenges. Currently residing in San Diego, Chris works full-time as an instructor for the Marine Corps Police Academy. He remains dedicated to providing specialized training and discussions on officer safety, trauma, and resilience.

#LawEnforcement #MentalHealthAwareness #FirstResponders #TraumaInformedCare #ResilienceMatters

Join us for an episode of the LEO First podcast as I sit down with Fred Stevens, the Sheriff of the Seneca County Sheriff's Office. With his wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to leadership, Sheriff Stevens offers invaluable insights into cultivating a culture of training, fostering authenticity without fear, and prioritizing the crucial balance between work, relaxation, and family.

For those eager to learn more about Sheriff Stevens' wisdom and leadership philosophy, further information can be found by reaching out to him at [email protected].  Tune in to the LEO First podcast and embark on a journey of discovery, learning, and inspiration with Sheriff Fred Stevens.

 

#LEOPodcast #PoliceLeadership #LawEnforcement #WorkLifeBalance #TrainingCulture #Authenticity #SheriffStevens #PoliceCommunity #LEOInsights #policetraining

In this solo episode of The LEO First Podcast, hosted by Michael Laidler, we dive into the tragic case of Sonya Massey, who was fatally shot by Deputy Sean Grayson after she called 911 for help. We explore the stressors that law enforcement officers face and how these pressures can impact their decision-making in critical situations. Michael breaks down the incident and discusses the systemic issues that may contribute to such tragic outcomes.

✔️ 50% of police officers report experiencing severe stress daily. ✔️ Law enforcement officers are 30% more likely to develop PTSD than the general public. ✔️ High-stress incidents can lead to split-second decisions with life-altering consequences.

Tune in to understand the human side of policing, the challenges officers endure, and the importance of mental wellness in law enforcement.

#PoliceStress #LawEnforcement #MentalHealthMatters #BlueLine #OfficerWellness #PoliceAccountability #911Call #JusticeForSonya

Don’t miss this powerful episode! Subscribe to The LEO First Podcast and join the conversation on how we can support our officers and prevent future tragedies.

In part two of the LEO First Podcast, we continue our conversation with Sheriff Will Akin from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. Building on last week’s episode, Sheriff Akin, a US Army veteran and former officer with the Phoenix Police and South Bend Police Departments, delves deeper into the critical topic of mental health in law enforcement. Discover how his family, role model mother, and education have influenced his approach to leadership and support for his team. Don’t miss this compelling conclusion!

#MentalHealthMatters #PoliceLeadership #USArmyVeteran #LawEnforcement #FamilyFirst #FirstResponders #EmergencyServices #FirstResponderLife #HeroicDuty #FrontlineHeroes #ResponderLife #EmergencyResponse #RescueTeam

In part one of the LEO First Podcast, join us for an eye-opening conversation with Sheriff Will Akin of the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. A US Army veteran and former officer with the Phoenix Police and South Bend Police Departments, Sheriff Akin brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to mental health in law enforcement. Discover how his role model mother, family life, and college education have shaped his perspective. Don’t miss Part Two coming out next week!

#MentalHealthMatters #PoliceLeadership #USArmyVeteran #LawEnforcement #FamilyFirst #FirstResponders #EmergencyServices #FirstResponderLife #HeroicDuty #FrontlineHeroes #ResponderLife #EmergencyResponse #RescueTeam

🚔 New Episode Alert: The LEO First Podcast 🚔

This week, we're honored to feature Christian Martinez AKA Kable, a retired law enforcement officer with 24 years of service. Chris' extensive career includes 8 years with Hialeah Police, 16 years with Miami Gardens Police, 4 years in the Army, and 2 years in the National Guard. Despite his professional success, Chris faced significant personal battles, including depression, PTSD, suicidal ideations, and substance abuse, which led him into a dark place.

Chris' turning point came when he found faith, transforming his life and igniting a passion for advocacy. Now, he champions physical and mental wellness, stressing the importance of having a crisis plan in place. His story is not just a testament to resilience but a vital message for those facing similar struggles or supporting others who do.

Join us for an eye-opening episode as Chris shares his journey of overcoming adversity and his mission to promote wellness and preparedness.

#LEOFirstPodcast #LawEnforcement #MilitaryVeteran #MentalWellness #PhysicalWellness #CrisisPlan #Faith #OvercomingAddiction #Resilience #PTSDRecovery #Inspiration #Podcast #WellnessJourney #MentalHealthMatters #SelfCare #TransformationTuesday #YouAreNotAlone #PodcastLife #ListenNow #Subscribe

New Episode Alert!

Join us on the LEO First Podcast as we sit down with Captain Kory Flowers, a 25-year veteran of the Greensboro Police Department.

Captain Flowers is not just an expert in law enforcement but also a renowned trainer on subversive criminal groups, leadership, and tactical communication.

His insights have been featured in top publications like Police One, Police Magazine, and the Los Angeles Times, and he's a familiar voice on the Street Cop Podcast.

In this episode, we dive into his experiences, the importance of effective communication in law enforcement, and his impactful work with Run Well, a mentorship program for young men.

Don’t miss this engaging conversation with a leader dedicated to shaping the future of policing!

 

#police #lawenforcement #policeofficer #policetraining #leadership #firstresponders #swat #family