National Police Association Podcast

Episode Overview: In this episode of the National Police Association Podcast, Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith welcomes Jess Flores, a former police officer who transformed her career-ending injury into a mission to help others transition out of law enforcement. Jess shares her personal journey, the challenges of leaving the profession, and how she found new purpose through fitness, community, and personal growth. She also discusses her work with Next Shift, a platform dedicated to supporting law enforcement officers in their post-career transition.

Key Topics Discussed:

Jess’s Journey into Law Enforcement
Inspired by her grandfather, a police officer and Marine Corps veteran
How childhood memories shaped her desire to serve
TV’s influence on her dream of becoming a detective

Challenges and Injury That Ended Her Career
Suffering a debilitating hand injury, making it impossible to return to duty
Struggling with identity loss and depression post-law enforcement
The lack of conversation around officers leaving the profession

Rebuilding Life After Law Enforcement
The role fitness played in her mental and physical transformation
Finding a new purpose and a sense of community outside of law enforcement
The creation of Next Shift to support other officers in transition