The Coptimizer Podcast

David Riedman is the founder of the K-12 School Shooting Database and a graduate from the Naval Postgraduate School. He conducts research on gun violence in schools and authored multiple peer-reviewed articles on homeland security policy, critical infrastructure protection, and emergency management.

In this episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, I sit down with Chief Mike Diekoff of the Bloomington (IN) Police Department to discuss his department’s innovative approach to mental health response. Chief Diekoff shares how his team collaborates with mental health professionals to handle crisis calls more effectively, ensuring that individuals in need receive the right care while reducing the strain on law enforcement. We dive into the challenges and successes of integrating behavioral health resources into policing and the broader implications for community safety. But that’s not all—Chief Diekoff isn’t just a leader in public safety; he’s also a hot-air balloon pilot! We shift gears to talk about his passion for aviation, his experiences flying over Bloomington, and the unexpected parallels between navigating the skies and leading a police department. Join us for an insightful and entertaining conversation that blends the serious and the adventurous in a way only The Coptimizer Podcast can. And stay tuned—I’ll be sharing a video of my own ride in Chief Diekoff’s balloon!

In this episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, host Patrick Flannelly welcomes retired police officer and author David Berez to discuss his transformative journey through over 20 years in law enforcement. David opens up about his challenging upbringing, the pressures of policing in a changing world, and the profound impact of trauma and resilience. Together, they explore stories from his career, his struggles after retirement, and the pivotal moment that led to his inspiring book, A Resilient Life: A Cop's Journey in Pursuit of Purpose. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about vulnerability, growth, and the tools to navigate life’s toughest moments—both on and off duty.

In this episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, I sit down with retired Sergeant Brian Willis, a seasoned law enforcement professional and trainer, to explore critical elements of health, wellness, and performance in policing. Drawing from decades of experience with the Calgary Police Service, Brian dives into why proactive health training early in an officer’s career is crucial to long-term well-being and resilience. We discuss the limitations of traditional paramilitary training and the need for a more dynamic, contextually relevant approach that integrates fitness, sleep, and mental skills training. Brian introduces the concept of challenge point theory, which emphasizes training officers at the edges of their skills to enhance their learning and performance. We also explore how new technologies like Neurosmart can provide real-time feedback on stress levels, allowing officers to refine their skills under pressure. This episode is packed with actionable insights and practical advice for law enforcement officers and trainers seeking to elevate their mental, physical, and emotional preparedness.

In this episode of The Coptimizer Podcast, I sit down with retired Sergeant Brian Willis, a seasoned law enforcement professional and trainer, to explore critical elements of health, wellness, and performance in policing. Drawing from decades of experience with the Calgary Police Service, Brian dives into why proactive health training early in an officer’s career is crucial to long-term well-being and resilience. We discuss the limitations of traditional paramilitary training and the need for a more dynamic, contextually relevant approach that integrates fitness, sleep, and mental skills training. Brian introduces the concept of challenge point theory, which emphasizes training officers at the edges of their skills to enhance their learning and performance. We also explore how new technologies like Neurosmart can provide real-time feedback on stress levels, allowing officers to refine their skills under pressure. This episode is packed with actionable insights and practical advice for law enforcement officers and trainers seeking to elevate their mental, physical, and emotional preparedness.