National Police Association Podcast

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NPA Podcast with Guest, Sheriff (Ret) Currie Myers, PhD, MBA, America’s Criminologist, Radio host

/ 36:15/E74
On this episode of the National Police Association Podcast, host Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith (Ret.) welcomes retired Sheriff Dr. Currie Myers for a conversation about service, leadership, organizational culture, and the importance of caring for the whole officer.
Myers traces his career from summer lake patrol assignments and the Kansas Highway Patrol to undercover investigations, homicide cases, a federal task force assignment, and service as sheriff of Johnson County, Kansas. He explains how those experiences shaped his commitment to supporting fellow officers, developing talented employees, and leading through service. The discussion also explores his transition into teaching, writing, radio, and podcasting, and his continuing mission to explain what police officers do, why their work matters, and what they need to succeed.

In this episode:
  • A childhood rooted in service: Growing up around law enforcement and military personnel helped Myers discover his calling, while a college ride-along set him on the path to becoming a Kansas state trooper.
  • Professionalism and officer safety: Myers and Smith discuss the pride, discipline, and organizational identity that help shape effective officers.
  • Leading an established agency forward: As sheriff, Myers pursued improvements in technology, specialized assignments, and recruiting while building on his predecessors’ work.
  • Excellence in corrections: Myers describes the effort to earn American Correctional Association accreditation and explains his view of jail deputies as officers policing a community within the facility.
  • Helping employees find their strengths: Strong leaders create opportunities for officers to develop their talents—and support their professional growth, even when it leads to another agency.
  • Telling law enforcement’s story: Myers explains why agencies should communicate directly with the public, recognize good work, and take responsibility when problems arise.
  • Experience informing criminology: Drawing on his investigative career and doctoral studies, Myers discusses the importance of connecting academic theories to what officers encounter on the street.
  • Mind, body, and spirit: Myers shares his perspective on mental wellness, physical fitness, and faith as foundations for a sustainable law enforcement career.
Looking ahead
Myers previews his forthcoming book, The Feral Man, which he says is expected in spring 2027. He outlines his argument that weakening connections to conscience, self-control, and social responsibility are changing the challenges officers face and making leadership and mentorship increasingly important.
A message worth remembering
“Law enforcement is a mere reflection of the society in which it serves.” — Dr. Currie Myers





NPA Podcast with Guest, Sheriff (Ret) Currie Myers, PhD, MBA, America’s Criminologist, Radio host

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