Policing In America Podcast

Policing In America Podcast

Welcome to Policing in America – a podcast about race and policing: the good, the bad and the ugly. The goal? To have, at times, uncomfortable conversations to spark positive change. Your host is currently the Officer in Charge of a unit that creates, delivers and maintains police training in the largest urban police department on the West Coast of America: Sergeant Tom Datro.

Recent Episodes

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Too Many Rules, Too Little Thinking
March 25, 2025

Too Many Rules, Too Little Thinking

In this episode, Sgt Tom sits down with Professor, philosopher, and martial artist Barry Lam to unpack the hidden costs of rule-heavy systems in high-stakes professions like policing. Together, they explore why too many rules can actually undermine...
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The Flaw in Fighting Crime - The Misuse of Data (according to retired FBI Agent)
Jan. 27, 2025

The Flaw in Fighting Crime - The Misuse of Data (according to retired FBI Agent)

In this we hear from a former FBI Cyber Special Agent who pulls back the curtain on how data can be a game-changer in the fight against crime—but also reveals the startling ways many police agencies are getting it wrong. Our conversation dives...
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Service, Honor, and Sacrifice - A conversation with a War Nurse.
Aug. 19, 2024

Service, Honor, and Sacrifice - A conversation with a War Nurse.

Ret. Captain Christine Collins is a decorated veteran and trauma nurse during a pivotal deployment to Afghanistan in 2009. Stationed at Bagram Air Base, she found herself at the epicenter of the conflict, tirelessly working to save the lives of...
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What's the truth about crime rates? A conversation with economist John Lott
May 31, 2024

What's the truth about crime rates? A conversation with economist John Lott

I have been wrestling with the recent news reports about the historic plummeting of crime rates for some time.  I am left thinking, "Don't believe your lying eyes."  Depending on which news outlets you watch you might have a very different...
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Self-Defense - When there are no POLICE - It's up to you; BE READY
May 8, 2024

Self-Defense - When there are no POLICE - It's up to you; BE READY

Donovan Brit is a US Army Veteran, a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Krav Maga, and the creator of the Las Vagas Combat Academy.  Donovan shares his unique insights on police use of force, self-defense, and how to prepare for the worst-case...
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The Problem with Police Training
April 30, 2024

The Problem with Police Training

Scott Savage is the founder of The Savage Training Group.  A police training and education company committed to providing the highest quality police training and education.  Scott recently retired from policing as a Lieutenant.  During...
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About the Host

Sgt. Tom Datro Profile Photo

Sgt. Tom Datro

Host