Best PepperBall Podcasts (2026)

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First Response Podcast with Bob Plaschke, Episode 21 - Captain Kristen Neubauer (Ret.) - Behind The Badge, Beyond The Bias 39:10

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18h ago39:10

39:10

The sirens fade and the real work begins. That’s where Kristen Neubauer, former captain and investigator with the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, takes us. Into the spaces where competence erodes bias, where leaders guard their team’s energy like a scarce resource, and where evidence, not instinct, carries the truth across the finish line. From be…

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118: From Secure Walls To Open Halls: A Corrections Officer’s Guide To Safe Hospital Escorts 34:59

15h ago34:59

34:59

We walk through the hard truths of hospital escorts: layers of security vanish, complacency creeps in, and small mistakes become big risks. From intel control to room setup, we share a field-tested checklist to keep officers, medical staff, and the public safe. • controlling timelines and blocking leaks • gathering inmate intel and risk factors • c…

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117: We Rewind 2025 And Share What’s Coming Next 33:25

8d ago33:25

33:25

Five years in, the mission feels sharper than ever: equip correctional professionals with tools, mindset, and purpose that hold up under real pressure. We look back on a year of travel and training, thank the partners who help us serve, and pull together the most impactful moments from conversations that changed how we read risk, teach skills, and …

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First Response Podcast with Bob Plaschke, Episode 20 - Barton Bollfrass - The New Tools Protecting First Responders 37:24

1M ago37:24

37:24

A flood isn’t just water. It’s noise, darkness, panic, a moving car you can’t predict, and a victim who might fight the person trying to help. That’s why we brought on Barton Bollfrass, a Navy EOD diver turned technologist, who builds training environments and tools that mirror the chaos without the body count. Barton walks us through Fathom Tanks,…

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116: Stoic Tools For Tough Shifts 39:36

1M ago39:36

39:36

The job doesn’t wait for your feelings to catch up. That’s why we unpack a clear, practical way to stay steady under pressure—using Stoicism as a daily tool for safer shifts, better decisions, and a healthier mind. We get honest about chaos on the unit, the pull to react fast, and how a few disciplined choices turn tension into control. We break do…

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First Response Podcast with Bob Plaschke, Episode 1 - Sgt. Michael Sugrue Walnut Creek Police Department (Ret.): Relentless Courage - PTSI and Police Leadership 16:41

2M ago16:41

16:41

In this debut episode, PepperBall CEO Bob Plaschke speaks with former Air Force captain and Walnut Creek Police Sergeant (ret.) Michael Sugrue, author of Relentless Courage, a book that chronicles his personal battle with mental health challenges that peaked after he had to use lethal force. Sugrue talks about the invisible toll of daily trauma on …

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115: From Rookie to Rank - Interview w/Matthew Hyde 1:07:44

2M ago1:07:44

1:07:44

Leadership in corrections doesn't come from a badge or title—it emerges from integrity, trust, and the willingness to shield your team during difficult times. Matthew Hyde, leadership strategist and author of "From Rookie to Rank," shares his remarkable journey from new correctional officer to CERT Commander without formal rank. Matthew's story beg…

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First Response Podcast with Bob Plaschke, Episode 19: Chief Scott Hughes, Hamilton Township, Warren County, OH: From Hypervigilance To Better Training: A Chief’s Case For Major-League Policing 40:52

2M ago40:52

40:52

The front line is loud, but the mindset behind it is louder. Chief Scott Hughes joins us to unpack the lived reality of hypervigilance, why officers won’t sit with their backs to the door, and what constant scanning does to stress, health, and family life. From there, we dig into an uncomfortable truth: we expect “major league” perfection from poli…

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114: 2025 MCA/MPPOA Fall Conference in Branson, MO 49:45

3M ago49:45

49:45

I saw a man once walk out of the Missouri State Penitentiary after three decades with a few dollars and no plan. I remember that moment—and this is why I am glad Missouri has set out to build something better. Come behind the scenes with us at the MCA/MPPOA fall conference for a candid tour of what’s actually working: “soft handoffs” between instit…

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113: Beyond Toxicity: Building Healthier Correctional Workplaces - Interview w/Josh Ryle 1:15:24

3M ago1:15:24

1:15:24

Joshua Ryle brings over two decades of corrections experience to this deeply insightful conversation about the hidden psychological patterns that shape corrections culture. From his early days at the Tennessee Department of Corrections to his current role as a training sergeant, Ryle has observed firsthand how the corrections environment creates be…

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First Response with Bob Plaschke Episode 18, Doug Shoemaker Chief of Police, Denton, TX Police Department (Ret.): Leadership in Crisis: Navigating Modern Policing Challenges 41:09

4M ago41:09

41:09

What does policing look like beyond the dramatized TV portrayals and sensationalized headlines? In this illuminating conversation with retired Chief Doug Shoemaker, we uncover the profound realities of modern law enforcement leadership and the extraordinary psychological burden carried by those who wear the badge. Chief Shoemaker brings 33 years of…

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112: Security, Innovation, and Leadership in American Prisons - Interview w/Pete Bludworth 1:19:56

4M ago1:19:56

1:19:56

What does it take to navigate the most dangerous prisons in America while maintaining both safety and humanity? Pete Bloodworth's extraordinary 35-year journey through corrections offers profound insights into this question. From his early days as a Marine Corps sniper to becoming one of corrections' most influential tactical innovators, Bloodworth…

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Episode 111: Knowledge, Willingness, Courage: What Officers Need From Leaders 34:07

4M ago34:07

34:07

What makes a truly effective correctional leader? In this thought-provoking episode, Michael Cantrell draws from decades of experience to unpack the three essential qualities officers desperately want from their supervisors: knowledge, willingness, and courage. Correctional officers seek leaders who possess deep knowledge about policies, case law, …

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First Response with Bob Plaschke Episode 17 - Chief Ken Wallentine: You Matter Like I Matter: Rebuilding Trust in Law Enforcement 36:02

4M ago36:02

36:02

What does it mean to carry five generations of law enforcement legacy? Ken Wallentine, the Chief of the West Jordan (Utah) Police Department, takes us on a remarkable journey through 150 years of family policing history—from his great-great-great-grandfather who served as a Deputy US Marshal during the Civil War to his daughter who texted "Dad, I'm…

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110: The Silent Service: Finding Purpose in a Life of Sacrifice - Interview w/LTC Dave Grossman 1:07:12

5M ago1:07:12

1:07:12

Lieutenant Colonel Dave Grossman brings decades of expertise to this powerful conversation about the psychology of violence, trauma response, and the vital role corrections professionals play in society. Drawing from his groundbreaking research that shaped books like "On Combat" and "On Killing," Grossman frames correctional officers as society's e…

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109: Rethinking Correctional Training: Objective-Based Training with Myles Cook 1:07:52

5M ago1:07:52

1:07:52

What if everything we thought we knew about training correctional officers was based on flawed assumptions? In this eye-opening conversation with Myles Cook, we explore how questioning basic training objectives can transform outcomes across corrections. Miles brings 15 years of diverse experience spanning corrections, patrol, narcotics, investigati…

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First Response with Bob Plaschke Episode 16 - Lt. Davin Cole (Ret.): Breaking Silence: A Hidden Mental Health Crisis 40:14

6M ago40:14

40:14

When retired Lieutenant Davin Cole reveals that police officers experience three to five traumatic events every month—the equivalent of what most civilians face in an entire lifetime—you begin to understand the monumental mental health challenges behind the badge. Through raw honesty, Lt. Cole shares his 31-year journey in law enforcement that culm…

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Re-Broadcast - ILEETA Live: An interview with Michael Cantrell and Gary York 1:04:24

5M ago1:04:24

1:04:24

This is a Re-Broadcast of ILEETA Live! Yyou can find more episodes here: / @ileeta Two nationally recognized voices in corrections. One powerful conversation. ILEETA Live is back July 16 at 7:30PM CST. This month: Michael Cantrell and Gary York—both published authors and respected subject matter experts—join us to talk leadership, resilience, and t…

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First Response with Bob Plaschke Episode 15 - Deputy Chief Jim Martin: Community Policing Meets Modern Technology: How Pueblo PD is Saving Lives 38:29

6M ago38:29

38:29

What makes someone dedicate their life to policing? For Deputy Chief Jim Martin of the Pueblo Police Department, it's about community connection, innovation, and heart. Born and raised in Pueblo with family roots stretching back a century, Martin returned after military service to protect the community he loves – not just as an officer, but as a yo…

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108: Can Smart Technology Create Second Chances? Interview w/Alisha Shoates James 54:28

6M ago54:28

54:28

What happens when a police officer's career evolves into revolutionizing corrections technology? Alisha Shoates-James takes us on her remarkable journey from patrolling Nashville streets to developing innovative tablet solutions that transform prison environments nationwide. Drawing from her seven years in law enforcement and extensive experience a…

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First Response with Bob Plaschke Episode 14 - Deputy Director of Public Safety Brad Petersen, Cottage Grove, MN: Mental Health Challenges in an "Average" Police Force 33:42

6M ago33:42

33:42

The mental health challenges facing police officers in America's suburban departments deserve just as much attention as those in major metropolitan forces. Deputy Director of Public Safety, Brad Petersen of Minnesota's Cottage Grove Police Department pulls back the curtain on what he describes as an "average" American police agency - not too urban,…

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107: Inside the American Jail System: Leadership & Innovation - Interview w/Shaun Klucznik 1:06:03

6M ago1:06:03

1:06:03

When was the last time you heard a positive story about what happens inside America's jails? For most of us, these facilities only make headlines when something goes wrong—an escape, a use-of-force incident, or a facility failure. But as Major Shaun Klucznik reveals in this compelling conversation, corrections professionals save lives, change futur…

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Re-Broadcast - The Silence Crisis in Corrections w/Michael Cantrell - Independent Voter Podcast 33:10

7M ago33:10

33:10

This is a Re-Broadcast of The Silence Crisis in Corrections with Michael Cantrell from The Independent Voter Podcast - https://olasmedia.com/blogs/behind-the-bars-beyond-the-badge-the-hidden-struggles-of-correctional-officers Think the justice system only affects the incarcerated? Think again. In this episode of the How It Really Works series of th…

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106: Jujitsu, Justice, and Leadership - Interview w/Bryan Antonelli 1:12:15

7M ago1:12:15

1:12:15

Brian Antonelli, known throughout corrections as "the fixer," pulls back the curtain on what it takes to restore order in some of America's most challenging prisons. Drawing from 32 years of distinguished service in federal and state corrections, Antonelli shares candid stories about transforming troubled facilities like USP Hazleton, where he arri…

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105: Keeping Your Cell Extraction from Going Viral on YouTube - Interview w/Tim Fasnacht 1:08:42

8M ago1:08:42

1:08:42

The shocking disparity between training requirements—four weeks to become a correctional officer versus sixteen weeks to become a hairdresser in Washington State—highlights a systemic problem in how we prepare staff to handle some of society's most challenging individuals. Fosnott describes his earliest experiences, including being thrown into supe…

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Episode 13: David Berez, President of SIX4 Consultants, LLC 41:41

9M ago41:41

41:41

Join Bob Plaschke, CEO of PepperBall, in First Response, a podcast dedicated to diving deep into the lives and challenges of emergency responders. In Episode 13, Bob speaks with David Berez—retired patrol officer, nationally recognized Drug Recognition Expert, and founder of Six4 Consultants. With more than two decades on the street in East Windsor…

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Episode 2: Mike Milstein 29:45

9M ago29:45

29:45

Mike Milstein is an experienced law enforcement professional with a robust background in leadership and public safety. Currently, he plays a pivotal role in addressing critical issues within the law enforcement community, such as drug overdose responses, behavioral health crises, and hate crime prevention. Mike is known for his strategic approach t…

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Episode 12: Officer David Goldstein, Northeastern University Police 43:55

9M ago43:55

43:55

Join Bob Plaschke, CEO of PepperBall, in First Response, a podcast dedicated to diving deep into the lives and challenges of emergency responders. In Episode 12, Bob speaks with David Goldstein—a 25-year law-enforcement veteran whose resume spans the U.S. Marine Corps, the LAPD, the NYPD, and now the Northeastern University Police. Commended in Los…

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104: Recent Training Spotlight - and A Special Announcement by Michael Cantrell 36:36

8M ago36:36

36:36

Michael Cantrell returns with a passionate exploration of the evolving corrections landscape, sharing significant professional milestones while introducing his upcoming new book, "Power Skills: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, Public Service, and Beyond." The episode begins with exciting news about Cantrell's appoin…

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103: The Human Stories of Military Justice and Rehabilitation - Interview w/James Cummings 1:09:05

9M ago1:09:05

1:09:05

From the corridors of military prisons to the unique challenges of civilian life, our guest Jimmy Cummings shares an extraordinary journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. A retired Marine with a commanding presence in military corrections, Jimmy opens up about his early struggles in Scranton, Pennsylvania, that led him to the Marines, meet…

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102: Leadership Strategies and Fostering a Culture of Integrity - Interview w/Chris McConnell 58:30

9M ago58:30

58:30

From military operations in the Gulf to the corridors of correctional facilities, Chris McConnell's journey is a narrative of resilience and leadership. Growing up in a law enforcement family in Pennsylvania, Chris was destined for a life of service. After serving as an airborne infantryman in Operation Desert Shield Storm, he transitioned into a c…

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101: Transforming Prisons: Innovation and Rehabilitation in Belize - Interview w/Dr. Jarrod Sadulski 53:11

10M ago53:11

53:11

Discover the transformative world of Central American prisons with Dr. Jarrod Sadulski, whose journey from the Coast Guard to criminology and federal law enforcement has led him to the heart of prison reform in Belize. As we navigate through his insights, you'll uncover the stark realities and surprising successes within the Belize Central Prison, …

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100: Discover the Secrets of Human Behavior - Interview w/Greg Williams & Brian Marren 1:22:43

10M ago1:22:43

1:22:43

Discover the secrets of human behavior in high-stress environments with our special guests, Greg Williams and Brian Marren from Arcadia Congerati. These experts, known for their work in developing the Marine Corps' Combat Hunter program, join us to celebrate the 100th episode of the Prison Officer Podcast. They offer unique insights into the parall…

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Episode 10: Scott Rose, Sheriff of Dodge County, Minnesota and the host and producer of the Officer Down Memorial Podcast. 38:17

11M ago38:17

38:17

Join Bob Plaschke, CEO of PepperBall, in First Response, a podcast dedicated to diving deep into the lives and challenges of emergency responders. In Episode 10, Bob speaks with Scott Rose, Sheriff of Dodge County, Minnesota and the host and producer of the Officer Down Memorial Podcast. Sheriff Rose is a 20+ year law enforcement veteran from Minne…

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99: Honoring a Legacy in Corrections - Interview w/Conor Fredericks 1:05:58

11M ago1:05:58

1:05:58

Join us for an insightful conversation with Connor Fredericks, a South Carolina Department of Corrections CERT Commander. In our exploration of corrections, we focus on the unique challenges correctional officers face, particularly those in CERT positions. Connor's career shift from night shift police work to corrections presents a compelling narra…

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98: Transforming County Jails: Leadership, Innovation, and Second Chances - Interview w/Justin Hall 1:05:00

11M ago1:05:00

1:05:00

Ever wondered what it takes to manage a county jail? Join me, Michael Cantrell, as I sit down with Justin Hall, the elected jailer from Nelson County, Kentucky, who has spent nearly two decades in the corrections field. We'll uncover how he navigated his way from the Hardin County Detention Center to overseeing operations in his hometown. Learn abo…

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97: Guard: Duty, Sacrifice, and Leadership - Interview w/Phillip W Parker 1:27:37

12M ago1:27:37

1:27:37

Philip W. Parker, former warden of Kentucky State Penitentiary, joins us to share his remarkable story from rural Kentucky roots to overseeing maximum-security operations. Listen as Philip recounts his unique career trajectory, beginning with a chance encounter while teaching karate that led him to the world of corrections. As we walk through the c…

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Episode 9: Chief Patrick Patton, Kenosha, WI Police Department 38:35

1y ago38:35

38:35

Join Bob Plaschke, CEO of PepperBall, in First Response, a podcast dedicated to diving deep into the lives and challenges of emergency responders. In Episode 9, Bob speaks with Chief Patrick Patton of the Kenosha, WI, Police Department. Chief Patton entered law enforcement after serving in the United States Marine Corps.He began his career with the…

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96: Best of the Prison Officer - The Basics - Success in Corrections 25:51

1y ago25:51

25:51

In this episode of the basics, I talk about what it takes to have Success in Corrections. The Basic, common sense attributes and work habits of a good correctional officer. Listen as I talk about Correctional Basics every rookie should know, and every veteran officer should already be doing...who knows...everyone needs a refresher sometimes. Keys t…

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95: Reflections on Correctional Leadership and Growth: A Year in Review - 2024 35:14

1y ago35:14

35:14

Unlock the secrets of successful correctional leadership as we recap an incredible year for the Prison Officer Podcast. We've reached new heights by launching on YouTube, and growing our audience worldwide. I tackle pressing issues like staffing challenges, emphasizing the crucial role of a positive workplace culture that prioritizes safety, leader…

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Episode 8: Chief Lance Arnold, Weatherford, Texas Police Department 45:55

1y ago45:55

45:55

Join Bob Plaschke, CEO of PepperBall, in First Response, a podcast dedicated to diving deep into the lives and challenges of emergency responders. In Episode 8, Bob speaks with Chief Lance Arnold of the Weatherford, TX Police Department. Since June 2017, Arnold served as the Chief of Police for the Weatherford Police Department, a suburb of Fort Wo…

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94: Exploring the Path of an Investigative Agent - Interview w/Steve Hansen 54:32

1y ago54:32

54:32

Former special investigative agent Steve Hansen joins us to shed light on a career filled with intense experiences and unique insights into the world of federal corrections. From his humble beginnings in a small Iowa town to navigating the complexities of federal prisons, Steve's story is one of dedication and resilience. Steve's career journey is …

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Episode 7: Chief Kevin Denney, Grand Island, NE Police Department 34:15

1y ago34:15

34:15

Join Bob Plaschke, CEO of PepperBall, in First Response, a podcast dedicated to diving deep into the lives and challenges of emergency responders. In Episode 7, Bob speaks with Chief Kevin Denny of the Channel Islands Nebraska Police Department. Chief Denny runs an approximately 100 sworn officer agency and articulates the challenges Police Chiefs …

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93: Leadership and Innovation in Correctional Training - Interview w/Michael Warren 1:07:19

1y ago1:07:19

1:07:19

Inspired by his grandfather, Michael Warren's foray into law enforcement was destined from the start, rooted in a rich family tradition of public service. Michael, the Director of Training for Command Presence and host of the Faces of Leadership podcast, joins us to share his unique journey. Michael brings a treasure trove of experiences that illum…

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92: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: Thriving in Corrections 37:16

1y ago37:16

37:16

What if I told you that the toughest challenges in the corrections field could turn into your greatest opportunities for growth? I explore my journey through the demanding landscape of corrections and shed light on a world that requires incredible resilience and determination. A recent e-mail from a correctional officer grappling with the aftermath…

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91: Can We Talk?...About Mastering De-Escalation Techniques in Corrections 30:02

1y ago30:02

30:02

What if the key to managing conflicts in corrections is as simple as mastering the art of listening? Join us as we examine the evolution of de-escalation techniques, starting from the era of "verbal judo" to contemporary methods centered on active listening and emotional regulation. You'll learn why truly hearing and understanding the other person …

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90: From Baseball Dreams to Correctional Teams - Interview w/Adam Dennis 55:46

1y ago55:46

55:46

Meet Adam Dennis, a 28-year law enforcement/corrections veteran, who shares his early days, influenced by his father's advice and his brother's positive experiences, as he navigates through a career filled with challenges and unexpected culture shocks. From playing college baseball to earning a criminology degree, Adam's journey is inspiring and ey…

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89: New Perspectives, New Solutions: Insights from Missouri's Fall MCA/MPPOA Conference 1:13:11

1+ y ago1:13:11

1:13:11

Join us live from the Missouri Correctional Association and Missouri Probation and Parole Officers Association fall conference at the stunning Lodge of the Four Seasons in Lake of the Ozarks. Learn about suicide prevention from the critical support provided by the 988 national suicide hotline. Hear inspiring conversations with Major Ognenovski from…

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Episode 6: Robert Stewart, Director - Policing with Our Community 43:22

1+ y ago43:22

43:22

Join Bob Plaschke, CEO of PepperBall, in First Response, a podcast dedicated to diving deep into the lives and challenges of emergency responders. In Episode 6, Bob Stewart, a seasoned law enforcement executive with over 50 years of experience, discusses the evolution of policing, community engagement, and police accountability. Stewart's rich care…

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2024 MCA/MPPOA Fall Conference Live this Week! 7:36

1+ y ago7:36

7:36

Join me on this week's Prison Officer Podcast as I bring you an exclusive update from the Missouri Correctional Association and the MPPOA conference. You'll also get a sneak peek into my classes on "Essentials in Correctional Excellence" and "Leading Without Rank," where I’ll share practical leadership strategies at all levels, regardless of your r…