Show notes
00:00 – Introduction
Steve introduces Mike Moulton and discusses the reality of policing beyond what people see on television.
01:45 – Why Mike Became a Police Officer
Mike explains how his father and a high-school football coach influenced his decision to pursue law enforcement.
03:20 – Starting the Police Academy at 20
Mike shares what it was like entering the academy at a young age and turning 21 while in training.
05:00 – Being a Young Officer in the Real World
Steve and Mike discuss the strange reality of being a young officer expected to handle serious situations and act as “the adult in the room.”
07:40 – From Officer to Police Chief
Mike breaks down his career progression through patrol, investigations, sergeant, lieutenant, captain and ultimately chief.
12:50 – The Race to Become Chief
Why timing, opportunity and career decisions can determine whether an officer gets the chance to become a chief.
15:15 – The Pressure of Being the Chief
Mike explains why a nighttime lieutenant can essentially become the decision-maker for an entire department—and what changes when you become chief.
16:40 – “There Are No Guardrails Anymore”
Mike reveals one of the biggest surprises of becoming police chief: having fewer people above you to challenge or correct your decisions.
19:00 – The Politics of Running a Police Department
Mike discusses the competing expectations of officers, the community, city leadership and elected officials.
25:00 – Leaving Policing Behind
Mike opens up about the difficult transition from being a police chief to civilian life.
27:20 – Finding a New Purpose After Retirement
How consulting work and creating a dedicated workspace helped Mike rebuild structure and routine after nearly 30 years in policing.
32:00 – Would He Become a Police Officer Again?
Mike reflects on his career and discusses whether he would make the same decision again.
33:00 – The Crisis in Police Recruiting
Mike discusses changes in police recruiting, applicant numbers and the challenges departments face attracting new officers.
36:00 – Why Mass Hiring Can Create New Problems
The conversation turns to hiring standards, training and the potential consequences of departments trying to quickly fill vacancies.
38:00 – The Modern Police Officer
Mike discusses the pressures facing today's officers and how policing has changed from earlier generations.
39:45 – Use of Force & Officer Decision-Making
Mike explains how officers think about force and how today's officers may face considerations that previous generations didn't have to deal with.
43:20 – Rapid-Fire Questions
Mike answers questions about policing, leadership, decision-making, public safety and what makes a great officer.
45:30 – Mike Moulton’s Work in Public Safety Technology
Mike explains his consulting work with public safety technology companies and how he helps technology companies bring their products into policing.
46:15 – AI & The Future of Policing
Mike discusses how artificial intelligence and emerging technology are changing traditional policing.
46:35 – Helping Startups Enter Law Enforcement
Mike explains how his consulting work helps early-stage technology companies gain a foothold within police departments.
47:00 – Closing
Mike shares where listeners can connect with him, followed by Steve's closing remarks.
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