Title: EP64 ‘Controlling Control: Rethinking Officer Safety Training’ with Dr. Benni Zaiser

Summary: This conversation explores the limitations of traditional police training focused on control and linear responses and introduces a new paradigm—Officer Safety 2.0—that emphasizes reflexivity, insight, and understanding the co-creation of encounters. Benni Zaiser shares his unique background, research, and practical strategies for transforming law enforcement approaches to enhance safety and reduce escalation.Key topics: • Limitations of traditional officer safety models (1.0)• The concept of officer-induced jeopardy as a social / training (not legal) construct• Systemic and social systems theory in policing• Understanding the constructive nature of inter-personal violence• The importance of reflexivity and metacognition• Turning points and scenario-based training for adaptive responses• The role of heuristics and biases in decision-making• The dangers of linear training and how it creates poor adaptability and decision making.• Moving from control to insight in police training• Practical strategies for implementing Officer Safety 2.0Please go to the Trainer's Bullpen website at www.trainersbullpen.com to access a copy of the research paper discussed as well as other resources.