043 - How De-Escalation Saves Lives - with Nigel Payne episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 23, 2026 · 38 MIN

043 - How De-Escalation Saves Lives - with Nigel Payne

from De-Escalation Conversations · host Nigel Payne

Welcome to another episode of the De Escalation Conversations Podcast, recorded live in Indianapolis at the 2024 Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) International Conference! This week, host Kerry Mensior sits down with Nigel Payne, the Memphis Police Department CIT Coordinator, whose law enforcement journey is deeply rooted in his family experiences and a passion for mental health advocacy.Nigel shares his powerful personal story of witnessing De-Escalation in action as a child, when an officer safely and respectfully helped his grandmother during a schizophrenic episode. This life-changing moment set him on a path to teach and lead others: from studying under Major Sam Cochran, the founder of CIT, to becoming a CIT officer and now a program coordinator, impacting hundreds of officers every year.In this candid, insightful conversation, Nigel and Kerry dive into:The human side of policing and why De-Escalation is at the heart of effective law enforcementTips and real-world advice for officers and civilians to stay cool under pressure and avoid escalating conflictsThe importance of empathy, self-reflection, and seeing the bigger picture - both on and off duty, at work and at homeHow to handle high-stress calls, manage your emotional triggers, and even how something as simple as music can transform tense situationsPractical tools to separate work stress from home life and the value of being “1% better every day”Nigel’s journey reminds us that De-Escalation isn’t just for the field, it’s a way of life that makes our communities, families, and ourselves stronger. Whether you’re a police officer, firefighter, medic, schoolteacher, or just want to improve your relationships, this episode is packed with takeaways you can use today.Don’t miss this inspiring discussion with one of CIT’s top leaders in Memphis TN, and find out how you can implement these principles in your own life.Like, comment, and subscribe for more de-escalation strategies! Subscribe for New Videos Every Week!► https://www.youtube.com/@The-IDEA-World Follow us on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theidea.worldFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheIdea.WorldLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-idea Visit our Website► https://www.theidea.world 

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043 - How De-Escalation Saves Lives - with Nigel Payne

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