Best Michael Laidler Podcasts (2024)

1
Keep Fighting the Good Fight Featuring Kristen Ziman 30:34

4h ago30:34

30:34

In this episode of *The LEO First Podcast*, Kristen Ziman, former Chief of the second-largest police department in Illinois, shares her powerful journey in leadership. With nearly two decades of experience, Kristen discusses how she transformed organizational cultures and empowered individuals to reach their full potential. Her passion for leadersh…

1
92: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: Thriving in Corrections 37:17

3h ago37:17

37:17

What if I told you that the toughest challenges in the corrections field could turn into your greatest opportunities for growth? I explore my journey through the demanding landscape of corrections and shed light on a world that requires incredible resilience and determination. A recent e-mail from a correctional officer grappling with the aftermath…

1
Reach Out You're Not Alone Featuring Chris Catren 41:40

1d ago41:40

41:40

In this episode of the LEO First Podcast, Chris Catren, Director of Strategic Relationships for First Responder Wellness, shares his insights on connecting first responders with essential behavioral health resources and training. As a retired Chief of Police of the Redlands Police Department, Chris brings a wealth of experience from his 28-year law…

1
We Need Leaders Featuring Chris Hsiung 25:57

8d ago25:57

25:57

In this episode of the LEO First Podcast, we sit down with Chris Hsiung, Executive Director of "The Curve," a leadership organization co-founded with Simon Sinek and law enforcement leaders across the nation. The Curve's mission is to modernize police culture by inspiring and equipping progressive leaders with the tools they need for effective lead…

1
91: Can We Talk?...About Mastering De-Escalation Techniques in Corrections 30:49

11d ago30:49

30:49

What if the key to managing conflicts in corrections is as simple as mastering the art of listening? Join us as we examine the evolution of de-escalation techniques, starting from the era of "verbal judo" to contemporary methods centered on active listening and emotional regulation. You'll learn why truly hearing and understanding the other person …

1
Say Thank You To The People Around You Featuring Rudy Perez 26:29

15d ago26:29

26:29

In this episode of The LEO First Podcast, we are joined by Rudy Perez, the Assistant Chief of Police for the City of Golden Valley, MN. With over 20 years of law enforcement experience, including graduating from the prestigious FBI National Academy, Rudy brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to his role. He discusses his passion for constitut…

1
Resilience, Loss, and Triumph Featuring La'Jerrick Taylor 26:54

1M ago26:54

26:54

In this episode of The LEO First Podcast, we welcome La'Jerrick Taylor, a veteran of the federal prison system with 12 years of service. Starting as a correctional officer, La'Jerrick later became a Sports Specialist while pursuing a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. With a remarkable 7-0 amateur MMA record, La'Jerrick's journey is a testame…

1
90: From Baseball Dreams to Correctional Teams - Interview w/Adam Dennis 55:46

1M ago55:46

55:46

Meet Adam Dennis, a 28-year law enforcement/corrections veteran, who shares his early days, influenced by his father's advice and his brother's positive experiences, as he navigates through a career filled with challenges and unexpected culture shocks. From playing college baseball to earning a criminology degree, Adam's journey is inspiring and ey…

1
Unlocking Billion-Dollar Success and the Secrets of Public Safety Leadership in Law Enforcement featuring Doug Shoemaker 23:47

1M ago23:47

23:47

In this episode of The LEO First Podcast, we sit down with Doug Shoemaker, a distinguished law enforcement leader with nearly 27 years of service in Jefferson City, Missouri, and Grand Junction, Colorado. Doug's career is marked by his deep commitment to community partnerships, notably managing the "Journey for Justice" march after the Ferguson pro…

1
89: New Perspectives, New Solutions: Insights from Missouri's Fall MCA/MPPOA Conference 1:13:11

1M ago1:13:11

1:13:11

Join us live from the Missouri Correctional Association and Missouri Probation and Parole Officers Association fall conference at the stunning Lodge of the Four Seasons in Lake of the Ozarks. Learn about suicide prevention from the critical support provided by the 988 national suicide hotline. Hear inspiring conversations with Major Ognenovski from…

1
You Are Not Alone Featuring Erika Kirk 29:42

2M ago29:42

29:42

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…

1
The Interrupted Outdoors: The Tangier Classic: A Celebration of Chesapeake Bay Fishing & Giving Back 42:54

2M ago42:54

42:54

In this special episode of The Interrupted Outdoors, we dive into one of the Eastern Shore’s fastest-growing fishing tournaments, the Tangier Classic! Now in its sixth year, the Tangier Classic is a multi-species fishing tournament on the Chesapeake Bay, set to take place from September 27-29, 2024, in Crisfield, Maryland. Our special guests Brad T…

1
2024 MCA/MPPOA Fall Conference Live this Week! 7:36

1M ago7:36

7:36

Join me on this week's Prison Officer Podcast as I bring you an exclusive update from the Missouri Correctional Association and the MPPOA conference. You'll also get a sneak peek into my classes on "Essentials in Correctional Excellence" and "Leading Without Rank," where I’ll share practical leadership strategies at all levels, regardless of your r…

1
Leadership for a Lifetime featuring Paul Butler 33:43

2M ago33:43

33:43

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 …

1
Beyond the Thin Blue Line featuring Colin Whittington 24:57

2M ago24:57

24:57

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…

1
88: The Many Challenges of Today's Correctional Officer - Interview w/Gary York 51:02

2M ago51:02

51:02

How do simple gestures elevate officer morale in an understaffed environment? What happens when political decisions compromise the safety of correctional officers? Join us as we welcome back Gary York, a veteran corrections professional and renowned author. We'll explore the necessity of supportive supervision and the detrimental effects of promoti…

1
When That Day Comes featuring Chris Hoyer 18:07

2M ago18:07

18:07

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 …

1
Leadership Unveiled: Sheriff Fred Stevens on Training, Authenticity, & Balance 35:55

3M ago35:55

35:55

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 crucia…

1
87: Debunking Myths and Unveiling Lies of Prison Life 37:58

2M ago37:58

37:58

Ever wondered how much of what you've heard about prison life is actually true? Mike Cantrell pulls back the curtain on the misconceptions that society holds about prisons and their inmates. Through a personal recount of a misguided community meeting, he reveals how families are often manipulated by prisoners who exaggerate their hardships. From ta…

1
Deputy Sean Grayson Fatally Shoots Sonya Massey Who Called 911 For Help 23:01

3M ago23:01

23:01

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…

1
"I never want to be this way" featuring Sheriff Will Akin 37:57

3M ago37:57

37:57

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. Dis…

1
86: The Complex World of Corrections: A Deep Dive with Dr. Mike Pittaro 55:21

3M ago55:21

55:21

What drives someone to dedicate their life to understanding inmate behavior and educating future criminal justice professionals? Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Mike Pittaro, associate professor of criminal justice at the American Military University and Director of Corrections for Northampton County Department of Corrections in Penn…

1
"I didn't understand her" featuring Sheriff Will Akin 39:31

3M ago39:31

39:31

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 h…

1
I Thought I Was Gonna Die featuring Chris Martinez 22:25

3M ago22:25

22:25

🚔 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 …

1
85: Best of The Prison Officer - Greatness Beyond the Badge - Interview w/Michael Laidler 1:01:04

3M ago1:01:04

1:01:04

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from a Border Patrol agent to a federal corrections officer, all while becoming a renowned public speaker and author? Today, we sit down with Michael Laidler, whose journey in law enforcement began at just nine years old, inspired by the O.J. Simpson case. Raised in Miami by a single mother and gra…

1
Leadership and Tactical Communication with Captain Kory Flowers 48:17

4M ago48:17

48:17

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 public…

1
Special "Trump" Edition featuring Michael Sugrue 32:08

4M ago32:08

32:08

Join us on The LEO First Podcast for a special "Trump" edition featuring Michael Sugrue. In this powerful episode, Michael shares his harrowing experiences from two critical incidents. During the first shooting, his body broke down under immense stress, leaving a lasting impact on his mental health. The second shooting was fatal, where Michael had …

1
84: The Role of Leadership in Preventing Misconduct in Correctional Facilities 28:28

4M ago28:28

28:28

Can leadership failures create a breeding ground for misconduct in correctional facilities? In this episode of the Prison Officer Podcast, we confront this critical question head-on. Through the lens of Stanley Milgram's famous 1963 obedience study, we unravel the often unseen dynamics of authority in corrections, exploring when and how the duty to…

1
Episode 50 - A Milestone featuring Michael Laidler 19:27

4M ago19:27

19:27

Welcome to the milestone 50th episode of the LEO First Podcast! I’m Michael Laidler, your host, and I couldn’t be more excited to reach this significant point in our journey. We started this podcast back in 2019, took a necessary break from 2020 to 2023, and came back stronger than ever with 40 incredible episodes from May 2023 to June 2024. As we …

1
83: Insights and Advocacy with Union Executive Director William Doyle 53:43

4M ago53:43

53:43

In the realm of correctional facilities, the roles and challenges of those who maintain order are often misunderstood and overlooked. Doyle discusses the trajectory of becoming deeply involved in union activities, from his early days in law enforcement to his current role in advocating for the welfare of correctional employees. He outlines the init…

1
82: Legacies and Innovations in WV Corrections - Interview w/Commissioner William Marshall 55:49

5M ago55:49

55:49

In this episode, I speak with Commissioner William Marshall and get an inside look at the West Virginia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. We learn about his path from State Police to Corrections Commissioner. We discuss the department's evolution into more training, enhanced career paths, and the future of corrections. We also discuss t…

1
81: A Journey through Leadership, Training, and Corrections Challenges - Interview w/Joseph Gunja 1:22:42

5M ago1:22:42

1:22:42

Joe Gunja's career trajectory from a military police officer to a regional director is not just a tale of personal achievement, but also a story of the varying levels of inmate-related issues and the work required in the different roles. Joe reveals a career where promotions often come with intricate challenges and highlights the importance of adap…

1
Finding Strength in Struggle: Mike Schentrup's Story | LEO First Podcast Episode 49 1:08:18

6M ago1:08:18

1:08:18

Episode 49 of the LEO First Podcast features Mike Schentrup, a seasoned law enforcement officer with 25 years of service at Gainesville PD. As a dedicated father and husband of nearly three decades, Schentrup shares insights from his personal and professional journey. Amidst personal losses, including the passing of his wife's parents and brother d…

1
80: Are You a Hunter or Are You Prey? 23:00

5M ago23:00

23:00

A prison is a place of violence. Pretty quickly, as they begin their sentence inside, other inmates categorize each other as Predator or Prey. As a Hunter or the Hunted. Their role is determined by whether or not they have the strength to stand up against the other inmates. Will they run and hide in their cell, or will they stand and fight? Will th…

1
Leadership, Legacy, and Family: Insights from Chief Keith Grounsell | LEO First Podcast Episode 48 1:07:58

6M ago1:07:58

1:07:58

In episode 48 of the LEO First Podcast, Keith Grounsell, Chief of Police at the Laurens Police Department, shares his inspiring journey balancing the responsibilities of law enforcement with the joys and challenges of family life. With four children, including a 6-year-old adopted from a troubled background, Keith emphasizes the importance of famil…

1
79: The Best of The Prison Officer - Strangeways - A Prison Officer's Story - Interview w/Neil "Sam" Samworth 1:12:29

6M ago1:12:29

1:12:29

Walking the corridors of HMP Manchester, former Prison Officer and author Neil Samworth—known as Sam—witnessed the stark realities of prison life, a tale he recounts with raw honesty in "Strange Ways: A Prison Officer's Story." Join us as we step into Sam's world, where the line between guard and guarded blurs, and where humanity faces its toughest…

1
Episode 47: From Music to Service: Lindsay McCall Long's Journey 1:45:11

7M ago1:45:11

1:45:11

In Episode 47 of the LEO First Podcast, we bring you the inspiring story of Lindsay McCall Long. Born in the Bay Area to parents deeply entrenched in the music industry, Lindsay's life took an unexpected turn after her father's passing at the age of 17. Retiring from Tempe PD three years ago, Lindsay shares her unique journey, having initially dive…

1
78: A Journey of Growth and Change in Prison Management - Interview w/Art Beeler 1:05:38

7M ago1:05:38

1:05:38

His four decades in the Bureau of Prisons have equipped him with a library of stories, and in our latest episode, Art's candid reflections peel back the curtain on the daily grind of corrections work, from the first clang of the prison doors to the intricate challenges of managing inmate programs. His tales are not just a narrative of personal grow…

1
Episode 46: Resilience and Reflections: A 23-Year Law Enforcement Journey featuring Ray Beshirs 1:03:26

7M ago1:03:26

1:03:26

In Episode 46 of The LEO First Podcast, join us for a compelling conversation with Ray Beshirs, boasting 23 years of experience in law enforcement in the DFW area. Explore Ray's remarkable journey, from growing up in poverty to becoming a dedicated supervisor with a passion for training. Uncover the lessons he learned along the way, including the i…

1
77: Behind the Bars - Prayers & Executions - Interview w/Larry Peoples 45:40

7M ago45:40

45:40

This episode doesn't just chronicle Larry's experiences, it delves into the heart of what it means to uphold justice in one of the most challenging environments imaginable. He shares vivid details of the 'death watch,' the procedure leading up to executions, and provides a sobering glimpse into the complexity of enforcing the death penalty. Larry's…

1
Episode 45: Insights from the Frontline featuring John Vik 1:15:44

8M ago1:15:44

1:15:44

In Episode 45 of the LEO First Podcast, join us for an exclusive conversation with John Vik, a distinguished member of the Lancaster Sheriff Office. Discover the intricacies of professional standards, hiring and firing, and internal affairs as John shares his journey of starting professional standards from scratch. Gain valuable insights into the t…

1
76: Part 2 - Best of The Prison Officer - The Unseen Battles of Correctional Integrity - Interview w/Glen MacDonald 1:01:17

8M ago1:01:17

1:01:17

In today’s episode, we talk with former BOP Captain Glen MacDonald about doing the right thing, even when it is tough. Glen walks us through many of the decisions throughout his life and career, where doing the right thing was not popular. Despite being shunned by staff, loss of promotions, and horrible stress, Glen persevered. Glen also shares his…

1
Episode 44: Navigating Mental Health and Leadership in Federal Corrections with Andrea Ballesteros 1:05:00

8M ago1:05:00

1:05:00

Join us on Episode 44 of the LEO First Podcast as we sit down with Andrea Ballesteros, a seasoned psychologist who has risen to the role of Deputy Chief in the federal correctional setting system. Andrea, a dedicated mom and wife, opens up about her journey in law enforcement and her profound commitment to mental health. From her aspirations in 6th…

1
75: Part 1 - Best of The Prison Officer - Doing What's Right, Even When it's Tough - Interview w/Glen MacDonald 1:00:07

8M ago1:00:07

1:00:07

Glen's reflections on the internal battles correctional officers face—such as finding drugs and corruption within their ranks—are eye-opening. These revelations highlight the lesser-known aspects of prison life and the constant vigilance required to uphold the law within its walls. The discussion around the corruption he witnessed, and the challeng…

1
Episode 43: Cultivating Empathy in Law Enforcement with Burke Brownfeld 1:18:05

9M ago1:18:05

1:18:05

In the latest episode of the LEO First Podcast, we sit down with Burke Brownfeld, a former police officer with a unique journey that took him from dreaming of law enforcement in his hometown to serving in the Peace Corps in Latin America. Burke shares insights from his time in the private sector and introduces the Guardian Score, a revolutionary ap…

1
74: Part 2 - When Stress Tries to Kill You - Interview with Bronner "Bama" Allen 1:06:15

9M ago1:06:15

1:06:15

It is not merely the high-stakes nature of maintaining order that this interview touches upon. The psychological toll of being a correctional officer is scrutinized through "Bama's" heartfelt story. He takes us through the day-to-day operations within the prison walls, where he encountered a gamut of scenarios – from gang violence to his own person…

1
Episode 42 - Unveiling the Journey - Jennie Hill, Executive Director of Wounded Blue 1:09:11

9M ago1:09:11

1:09:11

In Episode 42 of the LEO First Podcast, join the riveting conversation with Jennie Hill, the dynamic Executive Director of Wounded Blue, who launched her impactful journey in 2019. Living in Buford, GA, Jennie shares her compelling story of eight years as a former officer, reflecting on a time when K9 wasn't part of her life. She introduces Barron,…

1
73: Part 1 - All I Know is Corrections - Interview with Bronner "Bama" Allen 49:56

9M ago49:56

49:56

In this episode, I talk with Bronner "Bama" Allen about his interesting career that started at The North Carolina Department of Corrections which led to a 21-year career with Federal Bureau of Prisons where he retired. But Bama wasn't done yet, he returned to where he had started at The North Carolina Department of Corrections, and where he still w…

1
72: How to Manage Inmates with Mental Illness 52:54

10M ago52:54

52:54

In this episode, I talk about the fourteen years I worked around mental health inmates. Suicide, self-harm, schizophrenia, depression, pedophilia, they all affect the running of your housing unit. I will discuss some of the more common mental illnesses you will encounter working in corrections and some of my tips for managing some of the most diffi…

1
Episode 41 - Exploring Decades of Policing Wisdom with Bob Stewart 1:33:17

10M ago1:33:17

1:33:17

Tune in to Episode 41 of the LEO First Podcast for an illuminating conversation with the seasoned law enforcement veteran, Bob Stewart. With 28 years of active service and a wealth of experience, Bob takes us on a journey through the underbelly of policing, sharing insights from his fascinating career. Born and raised in Pittsburgh and an alum of H…

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Michael Laidler Podcasts

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