Briefing Room Podcast

In this episode, Colonel Matthew Birmingham, Director of the Vermont State Police and General Chair of the IACP State and Provincial Division, joins Mike Wagers for a candid conversation about what it means to lead a statewide law enforcement agency through one of the most turbulent decades in modern policing. Colonel Birmingham traces his path from road trooper to narcotics investigator to agency director, reflecting on how each chapter shaped his people-first approach to leadership. They discuss the weight of navigating COVID-19, the aftermath of George Floyd, and how both tested the relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve. The conversation covers officer wellness and peer support, embedding mental health crisis workers directly in barracks, the unique staffing pressures of policing 200 of Vermont's 251 towns, and the growing complexity of northern border crime. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode, Sheriff Dennis Lemma of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office joins Mike Wagers for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, service, and the future of policing. Sheriff Lemma reflects on rising through the ranks, from correctional officer to sheriff, and shares how that journey has shaped the way he leads today. They discuss the opioid epidemic, the importance of addressing root causes, and why Sheriff Lemma believes mental health is the next major challenge public safety must confront. The conversation also explores technology, innovation, agency culture, and how leaders can stay grounded in service while navigating politics, public expectations, and rapid change. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode, Sheriff Mike Chapman—elected in 2011 and now serving his fourth term as sheriff of Loudoun County (VA) Sheriff’s Office—shares stories from a remarkable 48-year career in law enforcement. From his early days in Howard County, Maryland, to high-stakes drug operations with the Drug Enforcement Administration in Miami during the “cocaine cowboy” era, Chapman recounts firsthand experiences that rival scenes from Narcos and Miami Vice. He discusses international assignments in Pakistan and Asia, the leadership lessons he brought back to Virginia, and how those experiences shaped his award-winning approach as sheriff. Chapman also reflects on navigating politics, collaborating with federal law enforcement partners, building community trust, and the philosophy behind his book, Step Up and Lead. It’s a candid conversation about service, accountability, and what it takes to lead a modern law enforcement agency. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode, Chief Stephen Redfearn of the Boulder Police Department joins the podcast to reflect on a remarkable law enforcement career that began as a teenage dispatcher and evolved into leading one of the nation’s most closely watched departments. Chief Redfearn shares firsthand insights from responding to landmark tragedies such as Columbine, the Aurora theater shooting, and more recent acts of mass violence, including the Pearl Street terror attack in Boulder. He talks about how those experiences have shaped him, the impact on officer wellness, and the importance of community trust. The conversation also explores Boulder’s innovative use of technology and AI—from AI report writing to drones and the use of transparency dashboards—and why, even in an era of rapid technological change, policing remains a deeply human profession. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode, host Mike Wagers sits down with Overland Park (KS) Police Chief Doreen Jokerst for a wide-ranging conversation on police leadership, community trust, and the future of public safety. Chief Jokerst shares her philosophy of “protecting the vulnerable from harm” and ensuring communities run to police for help, not away from them, while reflecting on her leadership journey from the University of Colorado to one of Kansas’s largest cities. The discussion explores The Curve nonprofit, lessons learned from managing high-profile events like Coach Deion Sanders’ arrival at CU and preparations for the World Cup, and how curiosity, innovation, and even failure play a critical role in evolving policing. Chief Jokerst also offers thoughtful insights on mentorship, organizational culture, and the responsible use of technology and AI in law enforcement. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode, host Mike Wagers sits down with Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan to discuss his transition from a 30+ year career with the Philadelphia Police Department to leading one of the Midwest’s busiest police departments. Chief Sullivan shares his philosophy on data-driven policing, including a reimagined CompStat process, focused shooter reviews, and strong partnerships with federal and local agencies to reduce gun violence. The conversation also explores recruitment and retention strategies, the role of technology like real-time crime centers and drones as first responders, and the importance of telling policing’s story through initiatives like “Well Done Wednesday.” Throughout the episode, Chief Sullivan emphasizes fair leadership, de-escalation, officer wellness, and community trust as essential pillars of modern policing. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Redmond (WA) Police Chief Darrell Lowe for an in-depth conversation about leadership, accountability, and the future of public safety technology. Chief Lowe reflects on his journey from growing up in Los Angeles to the Santa Monica Police Department and leading the Redmond, Washington Police Department, discussing how early career “knucklehead” mistakes shaped his approach to leadership. He shares insights on race and policing, the importance of professional involvement beyond one’s own department, and Redmond’s pioneering Drone-as-First-Responder (DFR) program—now one of the nation’s leading models. The episode also explores AI’s growing role in policing, ethical considerations, and how technology can support officer wellness and more effective service to the community This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode, Mike Wagers sits down with longtime public safety leader Kristen Mahoney, tracing her path from the Baltimore Police Department to Maryland’s Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention, and ultimately the Bureau of Justice Assistance, where she helped oversee billions in federal grants. Kristen reflects on the rise of evidence-based and SMART policing, the essential role of civilian professionals, and the federal government’s unique convening power. Kristen also shares insights from her work with the University of Chicago’s Policing Leadership Academy and the growing push to equip future police leaders with data-driven, problem-solving skills and the need to be curious amid rapid technological and cultural change. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Utah Highway Patrol Colonel Michael Rapich for a wide-ranging conversation about his 33-year career in law enforcement. Rapich reflects on the evolving threat environment facing public officials, how technology and data are reshaping highway safety, and what it takes to lead a statewide public-safety agency through rapid change. He also shares personal insights on knowing when it’s time to pass the baton, the legacy of service inspired by his father, and the future of policing in a more connected, complex world. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves for a candid conversation about leadership, community safety, and the evolving challenges of modern policing. Chief Graves shares her journey from civilian records clerk to the first female chief of the Kansas City Police Department, discusses her leadership philosophy rooted in listening and servant leadership, and reflects on lessons learned from managing mass gatherings, including the tragic Super Bowl parade shooting. She also opens up about preparing for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, embracing innovation through public-private partnerships, and navigating complex issues such as drones, AI, and the rise of political violence—all while staying true to her Kansas City roots as a Chiefs fan and barbecue enthusiast. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw for a wide-ranging discussion on tackling crime, community policing, and staying ahead of emerging threats. Chief Bercaw shares how Tampa achieved a dramatic drop in violent crime through its “Focus on Four” strategy, innovative programs targeting repeat offenders, and deep partnerships with the community. He also discusses managing large-scale events in today’s heightened security environment, leveraging cutting-edge technology like AI and drones, and prioritizing officer wellness to ensure a resilient police force. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Sacramento Police Chief Katherine Lester for an inspiring and wide-ranging conversation. Chief Lester shares her remarkable journey from enlisting in the Army right out of high school to leading one of California’s largest police departments. She discusses her views on education requirements in policing, the critical role of 911 dispatchers, building partnerships with federal and state agencies, and navigating the political and technological challenges facing modern law enforcement. This candid discussion offers valuable insights into leadership, innovation, and the evolving nature of public safety. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with National Fraternal Order of Police President Patrick Yoes to discuss the state of policing in America. Yoes reflects on the FOP’s membership growth during challenging times, the rise of ambush-style attacks on officers, and the importance of officer wellness and retention. He also addresses public perceptions of crime, the Protect and Serve Act, and how technology is reshaping law enforcement. This candid conversation highlights both the challenges and opportunities facing the profession today. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Sheriff Mark Lamb for a candid conversation about border security, the growing threat of cartel-operated drones, and the challenges of immigration enforcement. Sheriff Lamb reflects on his years of frontline experience, the humanitarian crises tied to trafficking, and his philosophy of leadership rooted in his mantra, Fear Not, Do Right. He also shares the programs he’s most proud of from his time in office, including initiatives to support veterans, women, and at-risk youth, and introduces his new venture, Ten Seven, aimed at helping law enforcement officers and veterans transition into entrepreneurship. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers talks with Chief Renee Hall, the first woman and first Black police chief of Dallas, and the new president of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE). Hall discusses the “great crime paradox,” where crime rates are low but public fear is driven by visible disorder, and stresses the need for community engagement. She highlights the lasting trauma of gun violence on both communities and officers, the stigma around mental health in policing, and her commitment to making it “okay not to be okay.” Hall also shares her experience navigating the challenges of being “Black and blue” and outlines her NOBLE priorities: officer wellness, responsible technology use, equitable policy, and advocacy for missing and murdered women and children of color. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this powerful episode of The Briefing Room, Chief Bryan Rippee of the Texas Highway Patrol joins host Mike Wagers to reflect on the evolving challenges and innovations shaping modern law enforcement. From the rise of ambush-style attacks on officers to the integration of autonomous trucking, Chief Rippee shares a candid and passionate perspective informed by decades of public service, both in the military and on the front lines of Texas law enforcement. With topics ranging from advanced vehicle protections to AI-driven efficiencies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of public safety. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this episode of The Briefing Room, Sheriff John Allen of Bernalillo County, New Mexico, joins Mike Wagers for a wide-ranging conversation on the challenges and realities of modern law enforcement. Sheriff Allen shares candid insights on rising officer-involved shootings in rural communities, the practical limitations of enforcing immigration policies, and the critical role of technology and training in policing. He also speaks openly about rebuilding trust with immigrant communities, combating human trafficking, and why “common sense” leadership matters now more than ever. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com

In this first episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers speaks with Chief Kevin Davis of the Fairfax County Police Department about encouraging trends in public safety. They discuss new Gallup data showing rising trust in local police among Black Americans, as well as Fairfax County’s survey efforts confirming this progress. Chief Davis highlights how proactive community engagement, smarter policing, and better use of technology are driving both improved public sentiment and a nationwide drop in violent crime. The conversation also touches on the sharp decline in officer fatalities, credited to improved training, evolving officer culture, and strategic use of less-lethal tools. Chief Davis shares insights from his career and emphasizes the importance of leadership, adaptation, and focusing on what truly makes communities safer—even if that means embracing pink handcuffs. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.policebriefing.com