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- Jun 21, 202632 min
The National Police Association Podcast with Guest, Hazel Cerra, U.S. Secret Service (Ret) Cybersecurity Leader @ Blackcloak
On this episode of the National Police Association Podcast, Sergeant Betsy Brantner Smith sits down with former United States Secret Service Special Agent Hazel Cerra, a 25-year veteran of federal law enforcement who has successfully transitioned from protecting presidents and world leaders to protecting corporate executives in the digital age.The conversation then turns to one of today's most pressing threats: cybersecurity. Hazel describes how criminal activity evolved from traditional fraud schemes to sophisticated digital attacks targeting businesses, financial systems, and critical infrastructure. She explains how hackers exploit vulnerabilities in payment systems, business networks, and personal information to gain access to sensitive data.The episode also explores the challenges and opportunities faced by women in law enforcement. Hazel candidly discusses her experiences as one of the few women in the Secret Service when she entered the agency, the importance of authenticity in leadership, and the lessons she learned balancing a demanding federal career with family life.Today, Hazel serves as Director of Strategic Partnerships at BlackCloak, where she helps organizations protect executives and their families from increasingly sophisticated cyber and privacy threats. She continues her lifelong mission of protecting others, this time in the digital world.In This Episode:The Secret Service's dual mission of protection and investigationsProtecting presidents and world leadersThe evolution of cybercrime and digital fraudHow cyber threats impact businesses and individualsDigital executive protection and executive securityWomen in federal law enforcementLeadership lessons from a 25-year Secret Service careerProtecting executives in today's digital environmentAbout the GuestHazel Cerra is a retired United States Secret Service Special Agent with 25 years of service. During her career, she investigated financial crimes, cybercrime, and network intrusions while also serving in numerous protective assignments. Hazel led cyber fraud investigations and served as Resident Agent in Charge of the Secret Service's Atlantic City Resident Office. She currently serves as Director of Strategic Partnerships at BlackCloak, helping organizations protect executives and their families from cyber, privacy, and digital threats.Connect with Hazel Cerrahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hazelcerra-cybergal/https://blackcloak.io/
- Jun 14, 202634 min
The National Police Association Podcast with Guest, Deputy Chief Rusty Myers, Author of Tattered, When the Blue Line Frays
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the National Police Association Podcast, Rusty Myers shares the story behind his new book, Tattered: When the Blue Line Frays, which chronicles his experience of being terminated after an officer-involved arrest incident despite later being fully exonerated by South Carolina's Law Enforcement Training Council. Myers discusses how a routine foot pursuit and arrest evolved into a years-long investigation that left him on administrative leave, stripped of his career, and struggling with severe depression and suicidal thoughts. He candidly describes the phenomenon many officers know as "organizational betrayal", the devastating feeling that the institution you dedicated your life to no longer stands behind you. The conversation explores critical issues facing modern policing, including:The impact of organizational betrayal on officer wellness. PTSD and cumulative trauma in law enforcement. Why police suicide remains a crisis within the profession. Building a culture where officers can seek help without stigma. Myers also reflects on his years as a patrol officer, trainer, and commander in Charleston, including his work developing ethics training, active-shooter response programs, and community history education for recruits. He explains how those experiences shaped his leadership philosophy and ultimately prepared him to survive the darkest chapter of his career. Today, Myers serves as a deputy chief and remains committed to ensuring that no officer under his watch experiences the same institutional failures he endured. His message is simple but powerful: officers facing investigations, career setbacks, or mental health struggles are not alone. Connect with Rusty Myershttps://www.amazon.com/Tattered-When-Blue-Line-Frays/dp/B0GYJ6PCQ1/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/arthur-w-m-38564b29b/ https://www.facebook.com/RustyArthurMyers
- May 25, 202630 min
NPA Podcast with Ken Bator, founder of Bator Training & Consulting, Inc. (BTC), author and speaker
In this episode of the National Police Association Podcast, Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith sits down with entrepreneur, podcaster, financial consultant, and law enforcement advocate Ken Bator. Ken shares his unique journey from banking and credit unions into the world of law enforcement advocacy and public safety media. Betsy and Ken discuss the growing hostility toward law enforcement following Ferguson and the George Floyd riots, as well as the continuing demonization of local and federal officers. Ken reflects on how witnessing Ferguson in 2014 fundamentally changed his perspective and motivated him to become more vocal in supporting police officers and public safety professionals. The episode explores the importance of personal interaction between citizens and officers. Ken encourages listeners to get to know the people behind the badge, emphasizing that most officers are simply hardworking individuals dedicated to protecting their communities. The discussion includes support for ICE agents and the broader challenges facing federal law enforcement officers today. The two also discuss whether America is beginning to turn the corner in its support for law enforcement. While cautiously optimistic, Ken warns that anti-police activism remains loud and persistent, often rebranding itself under terms like “reform” while still promoting anti-law enforcement agendas. Betsy emphasizes the importance of supporters of law enforcement becoming louder, more factual, and more engaged in defending public safety and constitutional order. Topics CoveredFinancial wellness for police officers Police credit unions and officer support Ferguson, George Floyd, and anti-police activism ICE agents and federal law enforcement Lt. Randy Sutton’s Rescuing 911The future of public support for law enforcementResourceshttps://www.btcinc.nethttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kenbatorhttps://www.facebook.com/kenneth.batorhttps://thewoundedblue.org/
- May 17, 202631 min
NPA Podcast with Rebecca Lynn, founder of the popular blog and social channels, Proud Police Wife
On this episode of the National Police Association Podcast, host Betsy Brantner Smith welcomes Rebecca Lynn, creator of the popular Proud Police Wife platform, for an honest conversation about the realities of being married to a law enforcement officer. Rebecca shares her personal journey as the spouse of a police officer for more than 20 years, explaining how difficult it was to find resources, support, or even relatable conversations when her husband first entered law enforcement. What began as a simple blog eventually grew into a nationwide community supporting police spouses and families through articles, social media, podcasts, conferences, and wellness resources. Betsy and Rebecca discuss the unique pressures police families face, including: Shift work and missed family events Emotional exhaustion and communication struggles Hypervigilance and decompression after shifts Raising children in a law enforcement household The emotional toll of anti-police rhetoric Online harassment and officer doxxing Maintaining identity and friendships outside policing Supporting officer wellness through strong marriages and healthy communication Rebecca explains practical strategies that helped her marriage survive the demands of police work, including “No Question Nights,” giving officers time to decompress before diving into family discussions after difficult shifts. The conversation also explores how anti-law enforcement sentiment after 2020 deeply impacted police families, especially spouses who suddenly found themselves facing hostility online and in their communities simply because they supported their officers. Rebecca emphasizes the importance of resilience, privacy protection, and continuing to publicly support law enforcement despite outside criticism. Rebecca also discusses the importance of protecting officers and families from doxxing and online threats, including her longtime support for Officer Privacy, a service dedicated to removing officers’ personal information from public databases. The episode concludes with a preview of Rebecca’s annual virtual Police Life Conference, a free online event designed specifically for police spouses and families. The conference features nationally recognized speakers covering marriage, parenting, financial planning, wellness, trauma, and officer family support. Topics Covered Life as a police spouse Marriage and communication in law enforcement families Officer stress and hypervigilance at home Family wellness and resilience Public hostility toward police families Social media harassment and doxxing Officer privacy and online security Parenting in law enforcement households Police marriage support resources The Proud Police Wife community and annual conferencehttps://proudpolicewife.com/https://www.amazon.com/Proud-Police-Wife-Devotions-behind-ebook/dp/B09BF2D585https://www.facebook.com/proudpolicewif/
- May 9, 202624 min
National Police Association Podcast Pt. 2 with Gregory K. Bovino, Commander-at-Large of the United States Border Patrol (Ret.)
In Part 2 of Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith’s conversation with former Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino, the discussion dives deep into the national debate surrounding illegal immigration, sanctuary city policies, immigration enforcement, and the growing hostility faced by Border Patrol and ICE agents in American cities.Bovino challenges the political phrase “worst of the worst,” arguing that limiting immigration enforcement only to violent offenders effectively creates a pathway to mass amnesty. He explains why immigration enforcement, in his view, must address the broader scale of illegal entry and overstays rather than waiting for crimes to occur before action is taken.The conversation examines how sanctuary city policies impact federal immigration enforcement and local law enforcement cooperation. Bovino describes how sanctuary jurisdictions create what he calls a “draw” for illegal immigration while simultaneously making it more difficult for law enforcement agencies to work together to remove criminal offenders and maintain public safety.Smith and Bovino also discuss the economic and social impact of illegal immigration on American communities, including: Competition for jobs and wages Strains on schools and hospitals Emergency room overcrowding Resource burdens on taxpayers The effect on working-class Americans A major focus of the episode is the distinction between criminal due process and administrative immigration enforcement under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Bovino explains how immigration law allows federal authorities to process removals administratively without using the traditional criminal court system.The interview also addresses the unprecedented hostility directed toward Border Patrol and ICE personnel. Bovino recounts violent encounters involving vehicles, projectiles, and organized activist resistance during enforcement operations in major cities, while discussing the long-term effects these operations have had on agents.The episode closes with Bovino encouraging young Americans and current police officers to consider careers in the Border Patrol and public service, calling the profession deeply rewarding and emphasizing the importance of protecting American communities.Key Topics Discussed “Worst of the worst” immigration enforcement debate Sanctuary cities and federal enforcement conflicts Economic impact of illegal immigration Immigration law and administrative due process Violence against Border Patrol and ICE agents Law enforcement morale and officer safety Mass deportation strategies Border security policy and national sovereignty Recruiting the next generation of Border Patrol agents Twitter https://x.com/GregoryKBovino
- May 2, 202622 min
National Police Association Podcast Pt. 1 with Gregory K. Bovino, Commander-at-Large of the United States Border Patrol (Ret.)
🔎 Episode OverviewIn this compelling first installment, Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith sits down with recently retired U.S. Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino, one of the most visible and outspoken leaders in modern border enforcement. Bovino reflects on his decades-long career, from humble beginnings to commanding high-profile operations across the country. The conversation explores the realities of illegal immigration, the operational and political challenges facing Border Patrol agents, and what it takes to achieve meaningful enforcement in the United States today.🎧 Key Topics and Takeaways🚔 A Career Inspired by Early Encounters Bovino shares a memorable childhood interaction with law enforcement that shaped his path. He joined the U.S. Border Patrol in 1996, drawn by service, mission, and a sense of adventure. 🛡️ Leadership Under Pressure He emphasizes leadership as the critical force multiplier, especially during years of limited resources. He highlights the resilience and dedication of Border Patrol agents operating without modern technology in earlier years. “Our most precious resource is our agents.” ⚖️ Politics and the Border Bovino discusses how shifting political administrations impact Border Patrol operations. He contrasts policy approaches and their real-world effects on manpower, morale, and mission execution. He describes the Border Patrol as uniquely vulnerable to political changes. 🌐 From the Border to the National Spotlight Bovino recounts being thrust into national media attention during major enforcement operations in cities like Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and Chicago. He addresses public criticism, viral media coverage, and his agency’s decision to respond directly through social media. He stresses the importance of telling the truth to counter misinformation. ⚔️ Fighting a Two-Front War He explains the challenge of enforcing the law while facing opposition from political leaders, media, and internal policy constraints. Leadership responsibility includes shielding frontline agents from external pressures. 🤝 Law Enforcement Unity Despite Politics Bovino describes strong support between federal and local law enforcement behind the scenes. Many local officers privately expressed solidarity, even when public cooperation was restricted. He calls the forced divide between agencies a travesty. 📉 Impact of Enforcement Operations He notes significant crime reductions in cities where Border Patrol operations were deployed. He references large-scale enforcement efforts such as Operation Midway Blitz. 🇺🇸 The Reality of Mass Deportation Bovino argues that mass deportation is essential to addressing illegal immigration at scale. He introduces the concept of “total spectrum immigration enforcement,” a whole-of-society approach. Key components include: Federal, state, and local cooperation through 287(g) programs Community reporting Workplace enforcement Encouraging self-deportation He emphasizes that success depends on national willpower and coordinated action. 💬 Notable Quotes “Leadership can make or break the mission and the people carrying it out.” “We do not just fight the bad guys. We are often fighting on two fronts.” “It is awfully hard to argue with the truth.” “Mass deportation is not optional. It is essential.” 🔜 Coming NextThis is Part 1 of a two-part conversation with Greg Bovino. Stay tuned for Part 2, where the discussion continues with deeper insights into enforcement strategy, national security implications, and the future of immigration policy.
- Apr 25, 202631 min
NPA Podcast with Wendy Patrick, Career Prosecutor, Media Personality, Author, Public Speaker
In this compelling episode, Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith sits down with nationally recognized prosecutor, legal analyst, author, and speaker Wendy Patrick. With decades of courtroom experience and academic expertise in theology and human behavior, Patrick offers a unique perspective on crime, justice, and the psychological factors that shape both offenders and victims.The conversation explores the evolving justice system, the importance of threat assessment, and the growing challenges facing law enforcement and prosecutors today.🔍 Key Topics & TakeawaysHer work bridges law, psychology, and faith, offering insight into why people make harmful decisions. Contrast between changing laws and unchanging moral frameworks. The enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in understanding justice and human nature.The emotional and ethical weight of pursuing justice, not just convictions.Why threat assessment, not prediction, is key to preventing crime. The dangers of ignoring patterns of behavior in repeat offenders. Insight into identifying red flags even in individuals without criminal records: Why many violent offenders appear “normal” or “quiet” to those around them. Examples like Ted Kaczynski illustrate how warning signs are often missed. The importance of trusting instincts and recognizing subtle behavioral cues. Emphasis on proactive crime prevention strategies. Recognizing behavioral patterns before violence occurs. Empowering individuals and communities to trust their instincts and act early. https://wendypatrickphd.comhttps://x.com/WendyPatrickPhDhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/wendypatrickphd
- Apr 20, 202632 min
NPA Podcast with police Sgt. Jon Rappa, Interrogation Instructor, Author of Extracting the Truth
In this episode, Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith sits down with Sgt. Jon Rappa—an active law enforcement officer and nationally recognized instructor in interview and interrogation techniques. Rappa shares how personal tragedy shaped his career, breaks down the realities behind police questioning, and explains why communication—not coercion—is the most powerful tool officers have.Key PointsPositive interactions with detectives on the case inspired a lifelong commitment to helping victims. His core philosophy: “Justice is coming.”Hollywood portrays aggressive, high-pressure tactics. Reality is far different: Calm conversations Rapport-building Respectful communication Rappa emphasizes: relationship-based interviewing gets better results than confrontation.Every officer talks to people all day, every dayYet most interview training comes after becoming a detective Strong communication skills can: Improve investigations Strengthen cases Enhance officer safety Humans detect deception only slightly better than chance (~52%) Body language often reflects stress, not necessarily guilt Focus should be on: Conversation flow Information gathering Behavioral context Critical for officer safety (e.g., detecting flight or aggression) Useful for identifying reactions during searches Less important than communication during formal interviews https://extractingthetruth.comhttps://advancedpoliceconcepts.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-rappa-27a374113
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