Behind the Tape

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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.
 
 

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.

In this gripping episode, Jim and Jay interview “John,” a seasoned undercover operative whose true identity must remain hidden. John pulls back the curtain on the high-stakes world of covert work—sharing stories of deception, danger, and survival. He also reveals the heavy emotional toll undercover life takes on relationships, family, and personal identity. This is a rare look into a world few truly understand.

Episode 16: Service, Strength, and Speaking UpWhile Jay is away, Jim holds down the fort with a powerful solo episode featuring Texas DPS Investigator Brandon Stribling. More than just a skilled investigator, Brandon is a remarkable person with a story worth hearing. From a lifetime dedicated to service to the challenges faced along the way, this conversation dives deep. The episode wraps with an honest and important discussion about mental health in law enforcement—don’t miss it.

Episode 15: A Long-Distance Dive into Detective WorkThis episode takes an unorthodox turn as Jim checks in from Alabama during training—but distance doesn't stop the action. Instead, it opens the door to new voices and fresh perspectives. Join Jim and Jay as they sit down with Johan, a seasoned investigator from South Africa who immigrated to the United States. From global insights to investigative war stories, this conversation bridges continents and careers. You won’t want to miss it.

Episode 14 doesn’t have a specific topic, but it does introduce the colorful crew from the investigative division who work alongside Jim and Jay. What starts as a casual introduction quickly turns into a hilarious melee of shenanigans and good-natured roasting as the team takes turns picking on each other.