Blue Grit Podcast: The Voice of Texas Law Enforcement

Send us Fan Mail Explore the pivotal role of education in law enforcement with Rick Poulson, Executive Director of the Labor Relations Information System (LRIS). Inspired by his firefighter father, Rick shares his journey into labor law and his dedication to equipping public safety professionals with crucial training. We dive into officers' rights during critical incidents, the importance of...

Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered how one transitions from the corporate world to the heart-pounding beat of police work? Laurie Burks from Rockwall PD joins us to share her inspiring journey from corporate shakeups to finding her true calling in law enforcement. In this episode, Laurie reveals how a pair of high heels became a symbol of resilience and confidence in a male-dominated field. Her journe...

Send us Fan Mail Dive into the dynamic world of Texas law enforcement as the Blue Grit Podcast welcomes Adrian Selvera, President of the Round Rock Police Association, and seasoned TMPA Field Representative David Kurylowicz. In this episode, David sheds light on the intricacies of contract negotiation, drawing from his extensive experience managing a vast region and working closely with local asso...

Send us Fan Mail What happens when you combine a passion for law enforcement with a love for rodeo and a stint in plumbing? Meet John Galloway of Fort Worth PD, whose diverse career path is anything but ordinary. From his early years to his role in the Family Violence unit, John shares his journey through law enforcement, balancing academic pursuits and family life. You don't want to miss thi...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Grit Podcast, we’re joined by TMPA Field Representatives Tony Rike and Leighton Guarnere, along with Legislative Liaison Jon Wilkerson, for an in-depth conversation about handling critical incidents. From defining what constitutes a critical incident across Texas to how evolving local policies are shaped by regional culture and politics, our guests brea...

Send us Fan Mail In this continuation of our deep dive into the unique challenges of policing a tourist-heavy island community, we are again joined by Anthony Rogers, President of the Galveston Municipal Police Association.  Throughout this episode, we discuss the importance of building political capital and fostering an active, engaged membership base in police associations, critical for navigati...

Send us Fan Mail Can you imagine the challenges of policing a tourist-heavy island community? In this episode, we’re joined by Anthony Rogers, the President of the Galveston Municipal Police Association, who dives deep into his unique experiences growing up in Galveston and navigating its law enforcement landscape. From his family’s longstanding commitment to the force to the intricacies of managi...

Send us Fan Mail In this second part of our podcast series, we dive deeper into the potential of maintaining higher standards in law enforcement as a solution to recruitment and retention challenges. We explore how raising the bar in training and leadership can not only attract better candidates but also improve retention across departments. Join us as we discuss the pivotal role sergeants play in...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we delve into a compelling discussion with Rachel Spahr, the dynamic President of the Texas City Police Officers Association (TCPOA). Rachel offers valuable insights into a recent management survey that revealed the harsh reality of ineffective leadership within the current administration. The alarming survey results have prompted a series of retaliatory actions f...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode , we sit down with TCOLE Executive Director Greg Stevens and Director of Government Relations Gretchen Grigsby to discuss their career journeys and the upcoming changes at TCOLE. They break down key legislative changes, like Senate Bill 1445 , and Gretchen’s focus on maintaining high recruitment and training standards . Learn about the new programs designed to supp...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we explore the critical topic of infant sleep-related deaths, which are the leading cause of fatalities in children under 18. Our guests, Danny Brewster from the Fort Bend Medical Examiner's Office and Dr. Savannah Lusk, share insights into their pioneering initiative aimed at providing essential training for rural law enforcement officers on handling these h...

Send us Fan Mail Curious about a day in the life of a law enforcement officer? Join us as Lon Craft, former president of the Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA), shares his journey—from adrenaline-pumping chases to the camaraderie and evolving police hiring processes. Lon discusses his career, from growing up in Orange, Texas, to his impactful role in the Baytown Police Department, including...

Send us Fan Mail How do you balance the demands of law enforcement with the principles of integrity and faith?  Join us as we host John Wilkerson and Bryan Flatt in a captivating discussion on the legislative landscape impacting law enforcement. They share insights from their work at the Capitol, including testifying on crucial bills like the less lethal bill. Bryan reflects on his journey from th...

Send us Fan Mail Tune in to hear Dan Simons, the Republican candidate for Harris County District Attorney, share his vision for addressing anti-law enforcement sentiment and clearing the backlog of drug cases. Our discussion takes an emotional turn as we explore the inspiring story of a young boy who overcame significant adversity to achieve academic and athletic excellence. Balancing military ser...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Grit Podcast, we discuss the challenges law enforcement officers face during emergencies. Kevin Lawrence, Executive Director of TMPA, joins us to talk about the role of local police associations in maintaining open communication, providing legal protections, and promoting transparency within law enforcement agencies.  Support the show email us at- blueg...

Send us Fan Mail Discover how professional relationships can shape your career and life in our latest episode featuring Devin Vyner, a seasoned Bertram PD sergeant. Sponsored by NEP Services, this episode explores the profound connections Devin has built over the years. We also celebrate the success of the 2024 TMPA Texas FOP Conference and the unwavering support from past leaders like Lon Craft....

Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered how a law enforcement association navigates the murky waters of false allegations and legal battles? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Kevin Lawrence, Executive Director of TMPA, and Randy Doubrava, TMPA's General Counsel, as they dissect the 2019 Javier Ambler case. Discover the rigorous processes behind TMPA's legal coverage decisions, includin...

Send us Fan Mail Join us for Part 2 of Crystal Sepulveda's incredible journey into law enforcement. Crystal, a Missouri City police officer, shares her powerful story of how the tragic loss of her father as a child ignited her passion for justice. Gain insight into the tense moments as Crystal recounts being shot in the face during a high-stakes police pursuit and her journey to recovery, emp...

Send us Fan Mail Crystal Sepulveda, a Missouri City police officer, shares her inspiring journey into law enforcement, discussing how the tragic loss of her father as a child fueled her passion for justice and led her to a challenging yet rewarding career in policing. She provides candid stories about her upbringing, her path to becoming a police officer, and the emotional impact of her father&apo...

Send us Fan Mail  Join us for an unforgettable recount of multiple episodes featuring heroic guests like Victor Avila, Ken Gardner, Joey Sepulveda, David Kurylowicz, and Greg Stevens! This special recap episode is a testament to the relentless dedication of law enforcement and the continued dangers they face daily to protect the life, property, and liberty of every citizen. Hear their powerful sto...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we delve into the captivating journey of Jay McClellan, TMPA’s new full-time training coordinator. Jay shares his remarkable career trajectory, offering insights into the transformation of law enforcement training, from traditional block training to engaging scenario-based exercises. He also discusses the invaluable lessons learned from jail environments and the v...

Send us Fan Mail In this continuation, we delve into Eric Reynolds' incredible journey, a former police officer forever changed by a near-fatal encounter in the line of duty. Facing significant health complications, Eric embraced a remarkable lifestyle change, leading to the founding of 'Cops and Campers,' a non-profit organization. A pivotal moment during a camping trip, where Eric...

Send us Fan Mail Join us for an unforgettable episode featuring Eric Reynolds, a former police officer with a remarkable story to share. From a family legacy steeped in law enforcement to a life-altering incident where Eric was involved in an officer-involved shooting with a bank robbery suspect, during which he was shot several times, Eric's journey is a testament to courage and resilience....

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we delve into the life of Jesse Noriega, a San Antonio native whose strict upbringing profoundly shaped his future. At 18, Jesse found his purpose in the Marines, where he served as a military policeman and canine handler. He shares riveting details about his intense training, the unbreakable bonds formed with fellow soldiers, and the daily challenges of military...

Send us Fan Mail Join us for Part 2 with Doug O'Connell and Ken Irvin, respected Austin attorneys specializing in the defense of law enforcement officers. Gain valuable insights into the complexities of critical incident responses and the emotional and legal challenges faced by officers. We'll also delve into the transition from prosecution to defense, providing a deeper understanding of...