Title: EP64 ‘Controlling Control: Rethinking Officer Safety Training’ with Dr. Benni Zaiser

Summary: This conversation explores the limitations of traditional police training focused on control and linear responses and introduces a new paradigm—Officer Safety 2.0—that emphasizes reflexivity, insight, and understanding the co-creation of encounters. Benni Zaiser shares his unique background, research, and practical strategies for transforming law enforcement approaches to enhance safety and reduce escalation. Key topics: • Limitations of traditional officer safety models (1.0) • The concept of officer-induced jeopardy as a social / training (not legal) construct • Systemic and social systems theory in policing • Understanding the constructive nature of inter-personal violence • The importance of reflexivity and metacognition • Turning points and scenario-based training for adaptive responses • The role of heuristics and biases in decision-making • The dangers of linear training and how it creates poor adaptability and decision making. • Moving from control to insight in police training • Practical strategies for implementing Officer Safety 2.0 Please go to the Trainer's Bullpen website at www.trainersbullpen.com to access a copy of the research paper discussed as well as other resources.