A Tactical Pause: Leading in Law Enforcement

A Tactical Pause: Leading in Law Enforcement

A Tactical Pause is the podcast for law enforcement officers and first responders at every stage of their career—from rookies to retirees. Hosted by retired Chief Deputy John Creamer, Deputy Executive Director of the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association, this show delivers thoughtful and relevant conversations to help you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of public safety. Each episode dives into topics such as policing trends, officer wellness, financial planning and crime patterns. Industry thought leaders join the conversation to explore the future of law enforcement—covering intelligence-led policing, emerging technologies and more. Through it all, leadership remains the thread that ties every discussion together. Step back, gain critical insights and lead with confidence in your career.

Episodes

August 13, 2025 57 mins

In this episode, Lt. Robbie Robinson joins host John Creamer to share financial survival tips every first responder should hear. With 30 years at the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, Robbie has made it his mission to help others “retire well” by reducing stress through financial literacy. His practical advice could save you money and help you retire with the same passion and purpose you started with.

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On this episode of A Tactical Pause, join host John Creamer for a summer rewind. He takes a look back at the first 10 episodes of the show and goes into more detail about some of the pressing issues facing law enforcement. You’ll also get a sneak peek at upcoming guests and topics in the works. Don’t miss this opportunity to catch up, reflect and prepare for what’s ahead.

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In this episode, host John Creamer speaks with Chief Chris Summers of the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. With over 40 years of experience in municipal, county and university law enforcement, Chief Summers shares insights from a distinguished career in leadership. Together, John and Chris discuss how to manage the monotony that can often stymie an individual's success.  It’s a relevant conversation about the ofte...

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In this episode, host John Creamer speaks with David Odom, director of the Consolidated Dispatch Agency in Tallahassee, one of the largest consolidated dispatch centers in Florida. Together, they explore the complex challenges of not only working as a telecommunicator in today’s world but also leading those on the front lines of emergency communication.

John and Director Odom dive into the ...

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In this episode, host John Creamer speaks with Miami Dade County Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz, the first duly elected sheriff of Miami-Dade County in decades. In a candid and insightful conversation, Sheriff Rosie shares the successes and challenges she's faced—not only as a new sheriff but as a leader guiding the agency’s transition into a constitutional office. Join us for an in-depth discussion on leadership,...

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June 3, 2025 54 mins

In this episode, host John Creamer speaks with counselor Shelley Stevens, LMFT. Shelley has been committed to and involved in recovery work for 20 years. Her passion is working with first responders and helping them finish their career strong. Shelley and John touch on some signs and symptoms that a first responder should recognize (within themselves) when they may be close to burn out. Why are first responders...

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On this episode of A Tactical Pause, Host John Creamer is joined by Doug and Karen Monda, founders of Survive First.  Survive First emerged from the personal journey of Doug Monda, whose own struggle with suicidal thoughts, leading to a failed attempt in 2013 ignited a deep realization about the mental health challenges faced by first responders. Having navigated his own path to wellness over several years, Mon...

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May 6, 2025 52 mins

In this episode of A Tactical Pause, host John Creamer welcomes Dr. Michael Steele, Ed.D., a former U.S. Marine, retired Orange County deputy sheriff and current leader of a major Alabama school district. With a doctorate in leadership and organizational change, Dr. Steele shares insights into his concept of "OoRah Leadership" and the power of personal accountability. Together, John and Dr. Steele discuss how i...

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In this episode of A Tactical Pause, host John Creamer sits down with Walton County Sheriff Mike Adkinson to explore emerging technology trends in law enforcement. From typewriters and bag phones in the early '90s to today’s cutting-edge, real-time crime centers and predictive analytics, Sheriff Adkinson reflects on the dramatic evolution of tools and tactics over the decades. They also discuss how technology i...

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In this episode of A Tactical Pause, Host John Creamer sits down with Florida Department of Law Enforcement Deputy Commissioner Matt Walsh. DC Walsh and John discuss officer resiliency, peer support and a new program called PCIS (Post Critical Incident Seminar). DC Walsh shares his pathway to wellness after surviving several critical incidents throughout his career.  DC Walsh also shares information on the new ...

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In this episode, host John Creamer speaks with Larry Beresnoy, president of TacOps, about the critical role of timely and relevant tactical training. They discuss the upcoming Florida Law Enforcement and Tactical Operations Conference—the first event of its kind in Florida—sponsored by the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association.

This conference provides law enforcement officers with immersive,...

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In this episode, host John Creamer sits down with Keith Dean, executive director of the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association, to explore the origins and future of FDSA. What began as an idea on a legal pad 16 years ago has grown into the largest deputy sheriff’s association in the nation. We break down the “Four Pillars” of FDSA—legal protection for deputies in critical incidents, insurance services, advanced tr...

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