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In the latest episode of the First Response Podcast with Bob Plaschke, veteran officer and detective Kristen Neubauer, former captain and investigator with the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, joined us to discuss the invisible demands of a career in public safety. Her experience highlights a fundamental truth: while tactical skills are essential, the foundation of effective policing is a deeply human discipline. Early in her career, Kristen learned that excellence is the ultimate equalizer. In high-stakes environments, competence and professionalism override bias, building the trust necessary to stay mission-first when lives are on the line.
A critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of leadership is the management of the "energy budget." Kristen emphasizes that sustainable performance depends on a leader’s ability to act as a guardian of their team’s resilience. This involves monitoring the subtle signs of strain, changes in tone, posture, or word choice and adjusting assignments before a breaking point is reached. By learning to de-personalize the "heat" of the street and practicing self-mastery, officers can navigate volatile moments without absorbing the surrounding trauma.
The discipline of a veteran investigator also provides a roadmap for risk management. Kristen pushes back on the myth of the "perfect gut feeling," arguing instead for a commitment to better questions and objective evidence. Whether testifying to a jury or briefing leadership, clarity always beats jargon. By leading with care, protecting the team’s capacity, and remaining anchored in facts, we earn trust where it counts most and ensure the mission remains sustainable for the long haul. Listen to the full episode here:
