Training to Be StreetWise

From NYPD Detective to Streetwise Communication: Anthony Celano on Role-Play Training, Leadership, and Workplace ConflictDian interviews Anthony Celano, a former NYPD detective squad commander with 22 years of experience in organized crime and narcotics, about how he built StreetWise Communication Trainings after retiring and becoming a licensed private investigator. Dissatisfied with generic, state-mandated security training, Celano created customized, scenario-based role-play programs where groups collectively determine the best ways to handle difficult people and high-stress workplace situations. He explains transferable policing fundamentals—observation, inquiry, credibility, supervision, and de-escalation—plus techniques like feigning understanding to gather facts from both sides of a conflict. Celano also discusses trends including rising workplace hostility, the importance of fair, firm supervision and managing perceptions, and how client-specific training can surface hidden issues. Lastly he shares how real-world personalities inspired his Sergeant Markie mystery novels.00:00 Meet Anthony Celano01:14 Streetwise Training Origins02:16 Role Play Method03:44 Handling Difficult People06:29 Observe Then Act07:35 Supervision Red Flags09:12 Confession Tactics at Work14:40 Undercover Creativity Stories17:50 Custom Programs for Clients21:56 From Policing to Mystery Books24:40 Complex Characters and Gotti26:24 Nobody Is All Good27:20 Why Society Feels Harsher28:27 No Room for Mistakes30:09 A Press Release Disaster31:47 Supervisors Must Lead32:49 Perception and Favoritism34:17 Workplace Equality Tensions36:07 Training That Solves Problems39:02 Workplace Violence Prevention40:48 Creativity and Carrots42:24 Role Play and Presence44:15 Refereeing Conflict Early46:52 Breakouts and Final Wrap