Behind the Tape

Behind the Tape: From Blue Falcons to Bad Dad Jokes — Officers’ Top Grievances

 
Hosts Jim and Aaron share candid, often funny and sometimes frustrating stories about police life — from petty neighbor disputes and bodycam moments to toxic admin, "blue falcons," call-jumping, hot-swapped cruisers, and the cringiest jokes officers hear on the beat. They collect nationwide pet peeves, trade sharp comebacks, and invite listeners to send their own stories.

Afro Man, Pound Cake & Police Fails: Cops Break Down the Viral Trial

Three friends and Law officers trade stories and laughs as they unpack the viral Afro Man lawsuit, courtroom antics and the infamous lemon pound cake moment.
They also debunk police folklore—Miranda myths, bad traffic-stop behavior and sovereign-citizen fails—while sharing wild patrol anecdotes, roadside confrontations and the pet peeves that drive them crazy.

Contempt of Cop: When Auditors Test the Line

Jim and Aaron explore 'contempt of cop' incidents, First Amendment auditors, and how social media algorithms amplify confrontations. They share patrol and detective perspectives, training gaps, and practical communication tips to reduce escalations and improve public interactions.

High Stakes: Cops, Cannabis & What’s Changed Since 2002

Jim and Jay welcome new co-host, Aaron,  and dive into candid conversations about marijuana legalization, how it has changed policing since the early 2000s, impacts on K-9s and DUI enforcement, medical benefits, gang and trafficking concerns, and the role of social media and policy in modern law enforcement. Personal stories and practical implications round out the discussion.

31 Years Behind the Badge: Chief Spencer’s Hard Truths

Jim and Jay sit down with Chief Spencer—who began policing in 1993—for a candid conversation about his 31‑year career, community policing, leadership and training philosophies, recruiting and retention challenges, and unforgettable on-the-job stories that shaped modern law enforcement.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not reflect those of any law enforcement agency. Some content may be graphic or disturbing. The language may not be suitable for all listeners. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

Behind the Tape, Episode 22: PT 2, the exciting conclusion to "this come back is personal"

Episode 22: the exciting conclusion to the "this come back is personal". Jay and Jim discuss their new agency, the differences and what they are looking forward to in the future. 

Behind the Tape, Episode 21: This come back is personal

After a long and tedious break from Podcasting. Jay and Jim make a bold return! You wont want to miss this episode as they lay it all  out there, where they've been, what they've been doing and all of life's changes in part 1 of t his 2 part series. 

Behind the Tape, Episode 20: Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more

In this episode, Jim reconnects with an old friend—former detective and now teacher, Anthony "Zep" Zeppetella. They start by sharing stories and memories from the past, then dive into Zep’s travels to Japan and New Orleans. The conversation closes with an honest discussion about trauma, mental health, and the changes needed to better support those who face these challenges.

Behind the Tape, Episode 19: justice in the big easy with Lousiana's finest

In Jim’s final episode from Alabama, he sits down with Nick Schlacter — a skilled digital forensic examiner and investigator from Louisiana. Nick shares the winding path that led him into law enforcement, opening up about his highs, his lows, and a life-altering traumatic event that shook his world to its core. Their conversation dives deep into resilience, the impact of trauma, and the difficult but vital process of grief, offering listeners a raw and powerful perspective on healing in the face of unimaginable challenges.
 
 

Behind the Tape, Episode 18: Combat to Cop: A Soldier’s Second Mission

This week, with Jim still in Alabama, he interviews Lance Hazelman from Tucson, Arizona. The conversation spans a wide range of powerful topics—from Lance’s service in the U.S. Army and combat tours in Iraq, to the challenges of transitioning home and beginning a new chapter in law enforcement. It’s a raw and honest look at duty, resilience, and the road from soldier to cop.