047 - What Every Police Supervisor Should Know About Use-of-Force Training with Michael Warren

Welcome to the De Escalation Conversations podcast! In this heartfelt and insightful episode, host Kerry Mensior sits down with Michael Warren, a retired Michigan law enforcement officer with 24 years of experience, current Virtual Academy partner, and seasoned trainer—to talk about all things police culture, de-escalation, teamwork, and the powerful ‘culture of speed’ affecting modern policing.GUEST INFO:Retired law enforcement officer from Michigan with 24 years of experience. He holds multiple degrees and is an avid reader. He currently serves with Virtual Academy ensuring partner success.Episode Highlights:Michael Warren’s Journey: From growing up surrounded by law enforcement in Georgia, to serving his childhood dream in Michigan, Michael shares the pivotal moments and family influences that shaped his career.Inside the Police Profession: Hear how shifting between dispatch, road patrol, detective work, and training molded Michael’s approach and perspective on effective policing.Culture of Speed vs. De-Escalation: Michael and Kerry dive deep into how the pressure for quick metrics and fast response times can undermine thorough, thoughtful police work and why de-escalation always requires time, patience, and empathy.Building High-Performing Teams: Both guests emphasize the irreplaceable value of well-rounded teams, leveraging individual strengths, and supporting each other on tough calls.Real-Life Lessons: Michael recounts a moving story about supporting a young man through a family tragedy, showing that de-escalation is much bigger than just use-of-force scenarios it’s about allowing people to be heard, seen, and understood.Training that Matters: The conversation highlights the importance of micro-learning, ongoing, realistic training, and the critical role of first-line supervisors in shaping officer success.Duty to Intervene & Teamwork in Action: The hosts reflect on the evolution of peer de-escalation and intervention long before it became policy and why humble teamwork is the backbone of safe, effective law enforcement.Key Takeaways:De-escalation isn’t just about avoiding force it’s about connection, understanding, and giving people their say.Law enforcement thrives not on being "well-rounded" individuals, but on well-rounded teams leveraging each member’s strengths.Training, experience, and intentional mentorship are essential to developing future-ready officers.Sometimes, calls that "go right" are just as important to analyze as those that go wrong so the right skills get transferred throughout the team.Shout Outs & Resources:Virtual Academy: Elevating first responder training for safer communities.ILEETA (International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association): Highly recommended by both hosts. Conferences, learning labs, and an unbeatable network of professionals.Special mention for industry leaders: John Bostain of Command Presence and Brian Willis, both recognized for their groundbreaking work in law enforcement education.Connect & Learn More:Find Michael Warren’s contact info and links to Virtual Academy in the show notes below.Interested in law enforcement training, de-escalation, or joining Aelita? Check out the links this podcast is your gateway!Listen On: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, YouTube Music, and more!Stay Safe, and Keep the Conversation Going! If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share. Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments what topics would you love to see covered next?#PolicePodcast #DeEscalation #LawEnforcement #ILEETA #FirstResponders #VirtualAcademy #Teamwork #Training #DutyToInterveneSubscribe 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