Faces of Leadership

Command Presence

The Faces of Leadership, presented by the Command Presence Training, believes that leadership is about two things – people and action. Leaders from across society are interviewed to discover what drives them, what makes them effective, and what the impact is of the leadership they provide.

  1. 4d ago

    Episode 27: Connecting Technology to Mission

    Technology has transformed public safety, but implementing it successfully requires more than buying the latest solution. It requires leadership. In Episode 27: Connecting Technology to Mission of the Faces of Leadership Podcast, presented by Command Presence Training, host Michael Warren welcomes Rusty Byers, Marine Corps veteran and public safety technology leader, for an engaging conversation about how technology, leadership, and organizational culture work together to strengthen mission success. With more than three decades serving the public safety profession, Rusty shares lessons learned from military service, law enforcement technology, and organizational leadership. Together, he and Michael explore why successful technology implementation has far less to do with software—and far more to do with people, communication, trust, and leadership. Whether you're leading a police department, corrections agency, communications center, or public safety organization, this episode offers practical insights into navigating change while keeping your mission—and your people—at the center of every decision. In this episode: • Leadership lessons from the U.S. Marine Corps • Why technology succeeds—or fails—in public safety • Managing organizational change without losing your people • The importance of listening before implementing new technology • Building trust between leadership, operations, IT, and vendors • Creating long-term technology strategies instead of chasing the latest trends • The future of integrated public safety solutions • Preparing agencies for the challenges ahead ____________________________________________________ Learn More About Strategic Communications Justice & Public Safety | Strategic Communications Connect with Rusty Byers rbyers@yourstrategic.com Join Command Presence and Strategic Communications for an engaging two-day retreat focused on innovative leadership strategies for public safety professionals September 16–17, 2026 Charleston, South Carolina Register here: Palmetto Public Safety Summit - September 16-17, 2026 | Command Presence Training Learn More About Command Presence Training Website: Command Presence Training 🎙️ Faces of Leadership Podcast https://www.commandpresence.net/podcast LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/commandpresence-training/ Facebook Instagram 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please Like, Subscribe, and share it with someone committed to developing stronger leaders in public safety

  2. Jul 7

    Episode 26: Tools for Lifelong Learning

    Graduation isn't the finish line, it's the starting point. In this episode of the Faces of Leadership Podcast, presented by Command Presence Training, host Michael Warren is joined by AJ Aldjaei, co-founder of Kaiden AI, for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of law enforcement training, and Bob McHale, retired law enforcement leader and training expert. Together, they explore why continuous learning is essential to developing confident, capable officers and how emerging technologies can enhance—not replace—the human side of training. From scenario-based learning and field training to critical thinking, articulation, leadership, and organizational culture, this conversation examines how agencies can better prepare officers for the realities of today's profession. Whether you're responsible for training recruits, developing supervisors, or leading an entire agency, this episode offers practical insights into creating a culture where learning never stops. Topics discussed include: Why effective training extends far beyond the academyBuilding confidence through repetition and realistic scenariosThe role of AI in law enforcement trainingDeveloping critical thinking and decision-making skillsStrengthening field training and coachingUsing technology to support—not replace—instructorsCreating a culture of continuous learning and leadership Kaiden AI info: Kaiden AI | AI for Law Enforcement Training Contact: Contact | Kaiden AI To learn more about Command Presence Training, visit CommandPresence.net. Command Presence Training | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/command-presence-training-associates/posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/CommandPresenceTraining https://www.instagram.com/commandpresencetraining

  3. Jun 23

    Episode 25: Winning the Career, Not Just Surviving It - Featuring Jeffery Manzer

    What does it take to build a long, healthy, and meaningful career in law enforcement? In this episode of the Faces of Leadership Podcast, Michael Warren sits down with Jeffery Manzer, Marine Corps veteran, law enforcement professional, Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and Human Performance Specialist with the Harris County Sheriff's Office. Drawing from more than two decades of service, Jeffery shares his journey from patrol officer to mental health and human performance advocate, exploring the lessons that shaped his mission to help first responders thrive both on and off the job. Together, Michael and Jeffery discuss leadership, resilience, wellness, physical readiness, stress management, and the importance of creating a culture where seeking support is viewed as a strength—not a weakness. The conversation challenges the profession to move beyond simply surviving a career and instead focus on winning it. From the importance of proactive mental health and physical fitness to the role leaders play in shaping organizational culture, this episode offers practical insights for anyone committed to personal growth, professional excellence, and long-term well-being. Whether you're a first responder, supervisor, trainer, or emerging leader, this discussion serves as a powerful reminder that leadership is about people, action, and the choices we make every day to invest in ourselves and those we serve. Command Presence Training | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/command-presence-training-associates/posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/CommandPresenceTraining https://www.instagram.com/commandpresencetraining

  4. 01/28/2025

    Episode 24: Peak Performance: Getting There and Staying There

    In this episode of the Faces of Leadership podcast, host Michael Warren sits down with Billy Barton, a Grandmaster in USPSA practical shooting. Billy shares his journey from backyard shooter to elite performer, offering invaluable insights into the importance of deliberate practice, pushing the limits of failure, and maintaining peak performance under pressure. The discussion dives into the mental and physical aspects of elite shooting, the value of training under non-ideal conditions, and the crucial role of continued growth and openness to new ideas in any profession. Tune in to learn leadership lessons that translate from the shooting range to everyday life.

  5. 12/17/2024

    Episode 23: A Lifetime of Service

    Join Michael Warren as he interviews Wayne South, a retired Lieutenant from Gainesville, Florida Police Department with over 28 years of experience in law enforcement. In this engaging episode, Wayne shares his journey through various leadership roles, the challenges of implementing community-oriented policing, and the importance of effective feedback. They discuss the value of starting important training from day one, the transition from line officer to higher leadership positions, and the significance of nurturing both professional and personal relationships. Wayne also talks about his book 'A Lifetime of Service' and how he continues to contribute to leadership training and development. Perfect for anyone looking to gain insights into effective leadership and community policing.

  6. 12/10/2024

    Episode 22: Stop Lying to Yourself

    Join host Michael Warren as he dives deep into the importance of leadership, mental health, and resilience. In this episode, Michael interviews Scott Medlin, a former Marine Corps veteran and law enforcement officer. Scott shares his personal journey from his beginnings in the Marine Corps to his struggles with PTSD and personal development. Discover the crucial role of mindset training, the importance of understanding mental health, and actionable strategies for leaders. This episode is not just for first responders; anyone striving for better leadership and mental wellbeing can benefit from Scott's insights.

  7. 11/05/2024

    Episode 21: Deposit Regularly

    In this episode of 'The Faces of Leadership,' host Michael Warren sits down with Chief Darren Gault, a seasoned law enforcement leader with over 26 years of experience. Chief Gault shares his journey, highlighting key elements that have shaped his leadership style, including his time at the FBI gang task force, his subsequent academic pursuits, and his transformative role as Chief of the Moline Police Department. The conversation delves into the importance of relationship-building in community policing, the impacts of toxic leadership, and the changing dynamics of generational leadership. Chief Gault also announces his candidacy for a vice president position in the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), underscoring his commitment to elevating the profession. Tune in to explore actionable insights on becoming a leader who inspires and empowers others.

  8. 10/29/2024

    Episode 20: Ethical Leadership in a City of Leaders

    Join host Michael Warren on this episode of the Faces of Leadership podcast as he sits down with Chief Ross Swope to explore his extraordinary 43-year career in law enforcement. From his rise through the ranks of the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington D.C. to serving as Chief of Police at the Supreme Court, Chief Swope shares his experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Learn about his pivotal role in national demonstrations, the ethical dilemmas he navigated, and his contributions to creating an ethical police culture. The episode delves into the impact of leadership on organizational ethics, the balancing act of law enforcement duties, and the importance of maintaining public trust and officer accountability. Chief Swope also discusses his influential writings on ethics-based policing and their potential to address issues like excessive force and 'quiet quitting.' This insightful conversation is a must-watch for anyone interested in law enforcement, ethics, and leadership.

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Faces of Leadership, presented by the Command Presence Training, believes that leadership is about two things – people and action. Leaders from across society are interviewed to discover what drives them, what makes them effective, and what the impact is of the leadership they provide.

Information

  • Creator
    Command Presence
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Command Presence
  • Show Website
    Faces of Leadership

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