Elevate Your Call To Service

In this heartfelt episode of Elevate Your Call to Service, Mike and Cathy get personal after a family scare—a jolting call about a car accident that reminds them of how quickly life can change. From that moment of fear and gratitude, they pivot into a deeper conversation on spiritual wellness and faith as essential elements of resilience in law enforcement and first responder life. Mike shares key takeaways from his recent FBI National Academy Comprehensive Wellness and Resilience certification, reinforcing his long-held belief that true wellness extends beyond the physical and mental, deeply encompassing the spiritual. Together, the hosts explore faith as a vital dimension of wellness, discussing practical ways officers and their families can begin to explore who God is, what faith offers, and how curiosity itself can be a first step toward peace. Listeners will learn: Why spiritual health supports resilience for leaders, officers, and their families How to take ten quiet minutes to reflect on what’s truly guiding your life Why asking “Who or what is big enough to carry what I’m carrying?” can change everything Simple first steps to explore faith, including reading the Book of John, Psalms, or Proverbs How even small spiritual habits can align your purpose, calm your spirit, and renew your motivation to serve Cathy closes the episode with an encouraging challenge: pause, reflect, and take that first step toward spirituality. You might just find that faith is the next layer of strength and wellness you didn’t know you needed. View our show notes at www.leleaders.com/elevate

What does a shattered Tahoe window and leadership have in common? Both reveal when yesterday’s habits become today’s anchors—and what we have to unlearn. Using a simple parking-lot mishap as a metaphor, Mike and Cathy explore: Unlearning: When a once-useful habit becomes an anchor—and how to let it go. Curiosity over certainty: Why considering “What am I missing?” builds safer, smarter teams. Commander's intent: Keeping the mission and outcomes steady while the plan flexes. Trust and junior voices: Creating space where new ideas aren’t heard as criticism. You’ll leave with a crisp, field-ready framework—LACE: Listen: Get the full picture and the ground truth. Assess: Weigh risks, resources, legal factors, and community impact. Collaborate: Blend veteran judgment with fresh eyes and subject-matter expertise. Execute: Make the call, communicate the why, and set a quick review point. If you’re tired of black-and-white thinking but don’t want chaos, this is your wake-up call. Adaptability isn’t trendy—it’s how leaders keep teams safer, decisions sharper, and outcomes better in a world that’s changing every day. Time to lace it up. View our show notes here:  https://leleaders.com/45-youre-not-adapting-coasting-on-old-wins-leadership-wake-up-call

In this episode of Elevate Your Call to Service, we unpack how leadership isolation quietly takes hold in law enforcement—and how it starts to cost your team, your agency, and your family. Mike and Cathy distinguish healthy solitude from destructive isolation, explore why good leaders drift into it (time pressure, insecurity, ego, “I’ll just do it myself”), and share a candid story of listening, apologizing, and rebuilding trust with a hurting patrol team. 7 warning signs you’re leading in isolation: 1. Two‑way dialogue has slipped into one‑way updates—people hear after decisions are made. 2. Peer check‑ins are fading; the circle you used to consult has gone quiet. 3. Surprise decisions are blindsiding other units—or your family at home. 4. You’re more defensive toward questions or dissent; “my way or the highway” is creeping in. 5. You feel decision fatigue, cynicism, or spiritual/emotional dryness. 6. You’re skipping debriefs at home; irritability and stress are carrying over into the evening. 7. In the name of efficiency, you’re choosing “I’ll handle it” over collaboration—and it’s becoming the norm. Listener takeaways: A clear line between solitude (restorative) and isolation (distorting) Why comparison, insecurity, and pace push leaders toward “decision‑making in a vacuum” How to course‑correct: own impact, listen fully, make changes, and keep your promise over time   Be sure to view our show notes here: https://www.leleaders.com/44-leading-in-isolation-7-warning-signs-and-how-to-reconnect-fast

In this episode of Elevate Your Call to Service, we tackle a costly leadership problem in policing: quiet infighting among leaders that fractures collaboration, slows operations, and erodes public trust.  Drawing from real command‑staff experiences, they unpack how “my division” thinking, surprise decisions, and ego-driven identities turn internal partners into competitors—and what it takes to rebuild an agency‑first culture. You’ll hear candid stories from the command table and the kitchen table—including a quick “course correction” after the FBI National Academy that illustrates how easily people drift from “we” to “me,” and how intentional resets bring teams back to mission. Listener takeaways: A simple checklist to name drift, put the mission in the room, and make trust visible How to create a 30‑day shared win with a cross‑unit case captain Language swaps that shift identity from unit‑first to agency‑first How to recognize and interrupt “kingdom building” early—before it costs your community. View our show notes here: https://www.leleaders.com/43-beyond-the-org-chart-break-silos-build-mission-first-trust-rich-law-enforcement-teams

Are you tired of setting goals every January—only to watch them fade away as the year gets busy? You’re not alone. In this episode of the Elevate Your Call to Service Podcast, co-hosts Mike and Cathy McIntosh reveal the hidden flaws behind traditional goal setting in law enforcement and police leadership. Discover why waiting until January to set your goals can actually set you up to fail—and what high-performing police officers, sheriff’s deputies, and law enforcement leaders do differently to achieve real results. Drawing on nearly 40 years of experience in law enforcement and leadership, Mike and Cathy break down a proven seven-part framework that helps you set, track, and crush your goals—no matter the time of year. Whether you’re a police officer, sheriff’s deputy, or aspiring leader, you’ll learn how to avoid the most common goal-setting mistakes, build unstoppable momentum, and create a leadership legacy that lasts. Don’t let another year slip by. Tune in now to discover the strategies that top law enforcement professionals use to stay intentional, accountable, and ahead of the game. Plus, download our free baseball-themed goal focus worksheet at leleaders.com/elevate to start your journey today! View our show notes: https://leleaders.com/elevate/42-why-january-goals-fail-police-leaders

What kind of legacy are you building as a law enforcement leader? In this candid episode, Mike—a 40-year law enforcement veteran—and Cathy—a 40-year law enforcement spouse—explore the real impact of leadership legacy in policing, both at work and at home. Building on last episode’s heartfelt conversation with Mike’s father, they reflect on how leadership habits, values, and even mistakes are passed down through generations. Mike and Cathy share personal stories about the legacies they’ve inherited, the challenges of breaking negative cycles, and the power of being intentional about the mark you leave on your agency, your team, and your family. In this episode, you’ll hear: How legacy in law enforcement is shaped by both what you inherit and what you choose to pass on * Real examples of positive and negative leadership traits handed down through agencies * The shift in law enforcement culture toward valuing family and work-life balance * Why self-awareness and honest feedback are crucial for leaders who want to change course * Practical ways to become more intentional about your leadership legacy—starting today Whether you’re a chief, supervisor, or aspiring leader, this episode will challenge you to reflect on your own journey and give you actionable ideas to build a legacy you—and those who follow you—can be proud of. Don’t miss the closing challenge: one simple step you can take this week to strengthen your leadership legacy. View our show notes:  www.leleaders.com/elevate/41-break-the-cycle-law-enforcement-leadership-legacy

In this episode of Elevate Your Call to Service, host Mike McIntosh welcomes his father, veteran superintendent John McIntosh, for a powerful conversation on generational leadership in law enforcement and public service. Hear real stories about overcoming adversity, the impact of mentors, and the critical role of trust and recognition in building strong teams. Discover practical leadership advice on: Building trust and repairing broken relationships Recognizing every team member, from frontline officers to support staff Balancing professional demands with family and wellness Creating a positive, accountable organizational culture Whether you’re a law enforcement leader, supervisor, or aspiring to serve at a higher level, this episode offers actionable insights to help you lead with integrity, connect across generations, and elevate your call to service. View our show notes at www.leleaders.com/elevate/40-generational-leadership

Unlock the power of proactive leadership in law enforcement.  Join us as we sit down with Dr. Abigail Tucker, a board-certified police and public safety psychologist and co-founder of the Heroes Active Bystander program. In this essential conversation, Dr. Tucker reveals why active bystander skills are critical for law enforcement leaders who want to prevent misconduct, reduce costly mistakes, and foster a culture of wellness and accountability. Learn how to overcome the hidden barriers that keep officers from intervening, and find out why simply having a “duty to intervene” policy isn’t enough. Dr. Tucker shares actionable strategies for building a department where every member feels empowered to step in—protecting their colleagues, their careers, and the communities they serve. This episode delivers practical insights and proven tools to help you create a safer, healthier, and more resilient agency. Don’t miss this deep dive into the psychology of intervention, the importance of ongoing training, and the steps you can take today to elevate your call to service. View our show notes at https://www.leleaders.com/elevate/39-the-moment-you-stay-silent-how-one-miss-can-change-your-law-enforcement-career

Is self-doubt killing your law enforcement leadership potential?  Relentless pressures like community unrest, staffing shortages, and self-doubt can fracture teams and erode trust. In Episode 38 of Elevate Your Call to Service, we reveal how personal leadership conquers chaos.  Learn practical tools to overcome imposter syndrome, build trusted teams, and lead with resilience. This episode offers actionable strategies to strengthen your agency leadership and restore community confidence.  Don’t let self-doubt derail your legacy—tune in to unlock your potential and lead with purpose.  

Overwhelmed by agency chaos or self-doubt?  As a law enforcement executive, you face relentless pressures—protests, staffing shortages, and budget cuts that erode team morale and community trust. Episode 37 of Elevate Your Call to Service equips you with proven tools to conquer overwhelm and lead with confidence. Join hosts Mike and Cathy McIntosh as they share the CALM framework—a repeatable system to control what you can, assess with clarity, lead with integrity, and move forward deliberately.  Drawing on real-life crises, like a line-of-duty death and a US Navy tactical pause, this episode delivers actionable strategies to build trusted teams, restore community confidence, and transform your agency.  Don’t let uncertainty derail you. Tune in to lead proactively and leave a lasting legacy.   View our show notes at www.leleaders.com/elevate/37-conquer-overwhelm-lead-police-with-tools-to-build-trust

Exhausted from endless shifts? Can't shut off your brain after a high-stress call?  Discover why sleep deprivation is the silent epidemic plaguing law enforcement and how you can reclaim your health, resilience, and edge on the job. In Episode 36 of Elevate Your Call to Service, we dive deep into the critical role sleep plays in officer wellness with insights from Dr. Chris Winter’s The Sleep Solution.  Learn battle-tested strategies to conquer sleep debt, boost performance, and thrive in your career and personal life. From crafting a sleep hygiene routine to optimizing your environment, we share practical tools tailored for shift workers. Stop running on fumes—sleep is your secret leadership weapon!  Tune in to transform your rest and elevate your service. View our show notes at www.leleaders.com/elevate/36-sleep-solutions-to-recharge-law-enforcement-resillience #LawEnforcement #SleepDeprivation #OfficerWellness #SleepSolution

Is your agency bleeding talent?  Stop toxic systems from sabotaging your team.  Toxic workplaces are crushing your best officers, and Episode 35 of the Elevate Your Call to Serve Podcast shows you how to fight back. We dive into the leadership traps—like vague directives, politics over people, and silenced voices—that fuel officer burnout and drive good cops away.  Our proven ASSESS framework gives you the tools to rebuild trust, restore purpose, and boost retention. Ready to lead with heart and end the sabotage? Tune in to transform your agency now! View our show notes at: www.leleaders.com/elevate/35-stop-toxic-systems-and-save-your-team

Why do 80% of leaders overestimate their self-awareness, burning bridges with their teams?  In Episode 34, we uncover the hidden test most leaders fail—and how to pass it by boosting self-awareness. With raw vulnerability, we share our own struggles and growth, revealing practical tools to overcome blind spots, build trust, and strengthen law enforcement teams.  This episode equips you to lead with clarity and impact. Join us for a weekly challenge to kickstart your self-awareness journey and transform your leadership, career, and community today! Watch the episode in its entirety on YouTube here. View our Show Notes at: www.leleaders.com/elevate/34-why-80-percent-of-leaders-fail-this-test-boost-self-awareness-for-law-enforcement-success

What does it take to lead when hope seems lost? In this gripping episode of Elevate Your Call to Service, we unravel the dramatic tale of Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition, where leadership defied impossible odds to save a stranded crew.  Paired with powerful law enforcement insights, you'll discover why trust and empathy outshine task-driven management. Unlock the LIFT framework (Listen, Ignite, Foster, Thrive) to build unbreakable teams in high-stakes moments. A must-listen for leaders eager to inspire and elevate with purpose. Watch the episode in its entirety on YouTube here.  View our Show Notes at www.leleaders.com/elevate/33-stop-struggling-lead-through-team-disconnect-with-LIFT

Ever wonder why half your team stays silent while the other half won’t stop talking—and how that’s quietly sabotaging your leadership? Join us as MBTI expert Mary Thompson unpacks the introvert-extrovert divide, revealing why these misunderstandings derail communication, fracture trust, and leave your team running on half power—especially in high-stakes fields like law enforcement. Tune in to discover practical, game-changing strategies to bridge the gap, unlock every voice, and transform your team into a cohesive, resilient unit ready to tackle any challenge.  If you want to walk away with tools to lead smarter, connect deeper, and turn personality clashes into your team's greatest strength, you won't want to miss this episode! Watch the episode in its entirety on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1eh_8dxQKlo Be sure to view our show notes here:  www.leleaders.com/elevate/32-why-your-teams-silent-half-isnt-talking-and-how-to-fix-it

Feeling worn out, disconnected, or like emotional weight of the badge has drained you dry? You’re not alone—and this episode offers hope.  In this gripping episode of Elevate Your Call to Service, hosts Mike and Cathy McIntosh tackle the silent crisis of wellness in law enforcement. With nearly 40 years experience, Mike reveals how neglecting his wellness nearly broke him—and their marriage.  Cathy, a branding expert with a front-row seat to the human toll, shares how they clawed back from the edge. Together, they unpack five aspects of wellness that help you survive the job: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational. Strength in each aspect will help you thrive and lead stronger teams.  Discover actionable frameworks and hear raw stories of burnout, sleepless nights, and a family on the brink.  Ready to transform from ash to iron? Listen now. Take the five-step challenge and find out how small moves ignite big change.  Visit leleaders.com to find our show notes.  

What if your team’s mission wasn’t just a faded “Serve and Protect” mug—but a rallying cry that lit them up every shift? Former Sheriff Mike McIntosh digs into the playbook for crafting a mission that inspires, motivates, and unites law enforcement teams.  From a fractured agency finding “Unity through trust” to an SRO unit igniting over safer schools, they reveal how to make your “why” stick—in one breath.  Expect real stories, a slick V.I.S.I.O.N. framework, and a free worksheet to spark your own. Ready to lead with purpose? Dive in—this one’s a game-changer. View our show notes here https://leleaders.com/elevate/30-inspiring-law-enforcement-teams-lead-with-a-clear-why and grab your free worksheet!  

Are your officers disengaged, burned out, or drifting apart? The problem isn’t more schedules or checklists. It’s a leadership gap.  In this episode, we dive deep into the critical divide between managing tasks and leading people, revealing why law enforcement teams crumble under box-checking bosses but thrive with vision-driven leaders.  Join us as we unpack a gripping SWAT standoff that exposes the life-or-death stakes of leadership and shares practical steps to rebuild trust, boost morale, and stop the ripple effect of burnout—before it’s too late. From sergeants to chiefs, if you’re ready to transform your agency with balanced leadership, this is your breakthrough moment.  Hit play now—your team can’t wait. Be sure to view our show notes here: https://leleaders.com/elevate/28-burnout-or-breakthrough-transforming-law-enforcement-with-balanced-leadership

Championship teams—whether on the field or in law enforcement—are built on one critical foundation: trust. Without trust, teams falter, relationships break down, and missions fail.  In this episode of Elevate Your Call to Service, Mike and Cathy McIntosh are joined by special guest Chris McIntosh to explore how leaders can build trust within their teams and create high-performing, championship-level organizations. Drawing from decades of law enforcement experience and lessons learned from championship sports teams, this episode dives into the key challenges law enforcement leaders face when trust is lacking—and provides actionable strategies to overcome them. Whether you’re leading a small shift or an entire agency, this episode offers the tools you need to create a culture of trust, collaboration, and excellence. View our show notes here: https://leleaders.com/elevate/27-the-trust-problem-in-law-enforcement-and-how-leaders-can-solve-it

Your leadership reputation isn’t what you say it is—it’s what others say about you when you’re not in the room. In this episode of Elevate Your Call to Service, Mike and Cathy McIntosh dive into the often-overlooked concept of building your leadership reputation and why it’s critical for law enforcement leaders.  This episode is packed with insights for law enforcement leaders at every stage of their career who want to build trust, strengthen their leadership style, and ensure their reputation works for them—not against them.