The LEO First Podcast

On this episode of the LEO First Podcast, Chief Michael Persley of the Albany Police Department shares lessons from decades in law enforcement. He discusses leading through pressure, building community trust, developing future-ready officers, and how intentional leadership shapes safer, stronger cities. A powerful conversation on service, strategy, and growth.

In this episode of the LEO First Podcast, I sit down with the wives of law enforcement chiefs from North Dakota. We talk about resilience, leadership, and the unseen challenges faced by families who serve behind the badge. Their perspectives are powerful, honest, and a reminder of the courage it takes, not just to wear the uniform, but to support it.  Topics We Cover: The realities of being married to a law enforcement leader Navigating the stress and unpredictability of the job Building resilience as a family unit Advice for spouses stepping into this life

On this episode of The LEO First Podcast, host Michael Laidler talks with Bill Fraass, retired Acting Chief of Police and CEO of Code 33 Consulting. Bill shares his 27-year journey from a 19-year-old reserve officer to leading the Sausalito Police Department. He reflects on his experiences in patrol, investigations, and community outreach, as well as the leadership lessons that shaped his career. Drawing from his book, Leadership in Law Enforcement: 10 Key Traits, Bill discusses the core principles of effective leadership and how agencies can cultivate these traits in future leaders. He also opens up about the challenges of injury, retirement, and transitioning to a consulting role. Tune in for a compelling discussion about law enforcement leadership, community trust, and the importance of developing the next generation of leaders. #lawenforcement #leadershipdevelopment #communitytrust #theleofirstpodcast #professionalgrowth

On this episode of The LEO First Podcast, Michael Laidler sits down with Lee Wolahan, a 24-year veteran of Victoria Police and a specialist in crisis negotiation. Lee spent the last 14 years working within the Critical Incident Response Team, where he mastered the art of communication under pressure. Today, Lee shares how the negotiation skills honed in high-stakes policing can be used to enhance team management, stakeholder engagement, and leadership effectiveness. From teaching how to move conversations from "no" to "yes," to managing performance in stressful environments, Lee's insights are practical for anyone looking to lead and communicate better. Through his current work training police officers, detectives, and specialist units, Lee emphasizes world-class negotiation strategies that influence behavior and create better outcomes — whether on the street or in the boardroom. Tune in to hear how communication truly becomes the ultimate tool for leadership. #crisisnegotiation #leadership #communication #lawenforcement #theleofirstpodcast

On this episode of The LEO First Podcast, host Michael Laidler speaks with Jason Armstrong, retired Apex Police Chief and national expert in community trust and organizational reform. Chief Armstrong shares his journey from leading transformative changes in Ferguson, Missouri, to authoring his #1 best-selling book, I'm Done Here!: Create Lasting Impact by Leading with Intentionality. He discusses the challenges of fostering accountability while building meaningful connections with the community. Throughout the conversation, Chief Armstrong emphasizes the importance of intentional leadership and the long-term impact of ethical, transparent practices. His insights on media relations, change management, and community engagement provide valuable takeaways for law enforcement professionals and leaders alike. Tune in to hear how thoughtful, purpose-driven leadership can reshape organizations and leave a legacy of trust and integrity. #leadership #communityengagement #lawenforcement #organizationalchange #theleofirstpodcast