The Cop & The Comic

Pride, Patrol, and Pop Stars It’s Pride Summer, so Kilo asks the hard-hitting questions—like “Who are your top gays?” Spoiler: Dad’s list includes George Michael, NPH, and Candace Parker. We get into LGBTQ+ visibility on the force, whether there was any actual training back in the day, and what he really thought about Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. Come for the rainbow, stay for the real talk (and the confused admiration for leather pants). Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Cop-Blocking: Teen Rights and Summer Wrongs In this episode of The Cop and The Comic, we dive into the wild world of teenage freedom—especially in the summertime. Should teens have more rights, or do they need a few more rules? Kilo argues for more trust, while Dad recalls the glory days of busting up parties, patrolling marshlands with a fake K9 unit, and unintentionally becoming the ultimate cop-blocker. From underage ragers to curfew debates, this one’s got laughs, laws, and a little father-son friction. Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Thriving in Connecticut: A Conversation with Nordia SavageThis episode of The Cop and the Comic features the vibrant Nordia Savage, a Jamaican-born Hartford native and passionate social and policy worker. Together, we unpack the unique experience of being a young professional of color in Connecticut—a state with a progressive reputation but a strong undercurrent of conservatism and cultural silos.Nordia shares her favorite spots to connect, including a must-visit Black-owned beer garden that’s redefining community in Hartford. We also dive into the challenges and joys of finding places to meet people and build meaningful connections in a state known for its "Nutmegger" quirks. From Hartford’s colorful characters to the evolving impact of immigrant communities, this episode blends humor, insight, and a whole lot of heart.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to thrive in the land of steady habits, this one’s for you! 🍻💡🏙️ Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

In this episode of The Cop and the Comic, Officer Martin shares his love for shoreline living, a way of life he’s known all his days. From pro tips on snagging the best property rates to his thoughts on why the East Coast is truly the "best coast," his advice might just have you dreaming of a sea breeze and a backyard with a view.Meanwhile, Kilo chimes in with his unique perspective—reminiscing about a research trip to the Sargasso Sea and uncovering untold tales of the family boat he never quite made it aboard. Grab your life vest and tune in—it’s a shoreline story you won’t want to miss! 🌊🚤 Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Into the Perfect Storm: Officer Martin's Harrowing Rescue MissionIn this gripping episode of The Cop and the Comic, Officer Martin takes us into the heart of the real-life events that inspired The Perfect Storm. Sharing his firsthand experience flying through a storm with towering 20-foot waves, he breaks down the strategies and teamwork that kept his crew steady in chaotic skies.From the critical communications with the rescue team and the distressed boat to the chilling mystery of the diver who was never found, Officer Martin offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of the bravery and precision required in life-or-death missions.This episode is a blend of nail-biting drama, heartfelt reflection, and the fascinating reality of what it takes to navigate the unforgiving forces of nature.Buckle up—this story will leave you in awe of the courage it takes to face the perfect storm. 🌊🌀✈️ Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

My dad joins me to talk about something we don’t always think about—emergency preparedness. We dive into his experience working during Hurricane Katrina, where he had to help Haitian refugees and eventually return them to safety. It’s a powerful reminder of how important it is to stay alert and cautious in unpredictable situations, especially when there’s the potential for hostility.We also get into how my dad prepared me for emergencies growing up. From fire drills at home to having a fire safety plan that was somehow already embedded in my subconscious, he made sure I was always ready for the unexpected—even if I didn’t realize it at the time.This conversation blends personal stories with life lessons about being prepared for whatever comes your way. You won’t want to miss it. Tune in to hear my dad’s wisdom, and some laughs along the way, as we explore the value of preparation and staying safe. Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

In this  episode of The Cop and the Comic, we tackle the recent LA fires that have shaken the city and left many of us on edge. My dad shares chilling stories of dealing with fires during his time on the force, including the unique and terrifying challenges of fighting blazes on boats—where water doesn't make things any less dangerous. Being so close to the evacuation zone, I’ve felt the weight of collateral damage firsthand, and we unpack what that means for those of us who live at the edge of danger. Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Building Bridges: Nordia Savage on Uplifting Communities in Connecticut (Part 1)In Part 1 of our conversation with Nordia Savage, a Jamaican-born Hartford native and passionate advocate, we dive into her impactful work as a social worker and policy expert. Nordia shares her experiences with Public Allies and AmeriCorps, including her time in Dan O’Malley’s office, where she spearheaded transformative initiatives for Hartford youth. From history projects to job training and internship programs, she’s made a lasting difference in the lives of underserved communities.But Nordia doesn’t shy away from addressing the barriers that hold Connecticut back—transportation challenges, low wages, and the lack of affordable childcare. She also highlights the critical need for stronger communication between generations and across sectors, ensuring that the incredible work happening in the state can connect and amplify its impact.This episode is a thoughtful exploration of what it takes to drive change, break down silos, and create opportunities for everyone. Tune in to hear Nordia’s vision for a more inclusive and united Connecticut. 💬🌟🏙️ Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Sharpshooter Stories: Lessons from the RangeIn this episode of The Cop and the Comic, Officer Martin takes us on a journey through his lifelong relationship with firearms, starting with the lessons he learned as a boy from his own father. From those first moments holding a gun under his father’s watchful eye to mastering the M16 and handguns at the academy, he shares the experiences that shaped him into a top marksman.As an instructor, Officer Martin also breaks down what it takes to become a great sharpshooter—the patterns, discipline, and mindset that separate the best from the rest. Along the way, he reflects on the accidents that can happen during training and how his teaching philosophy prioritizes safety and precision. Tune in for practical tips from a master teacher who knows what it takes to hit the mark. 🎯🔫 Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Survival Strokes: Officer Martin's Journey from Backyard Pools to Flight SchoolIn this episode of The Cop and the Comic, Officer Martin dives into his swimming journey, starting with lessons from his grandfather and inspiration from Olympic greats like Mark Spitz. What began as a childhood pastime turned into a critical skill when he joined the Coast Guard Academy and faced a daunting challenge: swimming a mile in full flight gear and treading water for five minutes.He shares how this wake-up call pushed him to practice extra hours, perfect his strokes, and adapt his lean, athletic body for survival in extreme conditions. From freestyle techniques to his go-to swim moves that keep him afloat today, Officer Martin proves he’s got the grit to rival swimming legends like Nyad, Ledecky, and Phelps—only with the added pressure of flight training simulations.Tune in for an inspiring story of perseverance, technique, and what it truly means to sink or swim. 🏊‍♂️🌊✈️ Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

In this hilarious and heartwarming episode of The Cop and the Comic, Kilo and their dad, a retired police officer, dive into the wild side of suburban life—literally. From unexpected run-ins with possums and raccoons to an unforgettable (and questionable) attempt to catch a bald eagle, this episode is packed with unbelievable animal antics. Plus, hear the surprising story of how Kilo’s dad handled a bear encounter and his thoughts on the curious phenomenon of cat ladies.Tune in for a mix of laugh-out-loud moments, local wildlife chaos, and the unique charm of a father-son duo tackling life one animal encounter at a time. Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Keeping Jets in the Air: Lucky Mendez on the High-Stakes World of Aircraft RoutingIn Part 2 of our conversation with Lucky Mendez, we dive into the day-to-day reality of being an aircraft router for JetBlue, where he’s been keeping planes moving smoothly for the past seven years. Lucky explains how his small but mighty team juggles constant communication with pilots, mechanics, and ground crews to ensure operations stay on track—even in one of the world’s busiest hubs, the New York–New Jersey metropolitan area.We also talk about the challenges of the job, including Lucky’s biggest mistake on the job and how he learned to keep calm under pressure. My dad chimes in with his own stories of high-stakes moments in aviation, highlighting that failure is just part of the journey. Lucky reflects on the responsibility that comes with the perks of flying and how this career has taught him resilience and focus.This episode is a masterclass in adaptability, teamwork, and keeping a cool head when the stakes are sky-high. 🌍🛫💼 Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

From Welding to Writing: Lucky Mendez’s Journey to Aircraft RoutingIn this episode of The Cop and the Comic, we sit down with Lucky Mendez, a screenwriter and TV writer whose real-life experiences as an aircraft router have inspired his work. Lucky shares the story of how he got into this fascinating career, starting with an intense 8-month aviation mechanics program. He breaks down the highs and lows of training—welding was the toughest, while working with electronic boards came naturally—and explains how he approached job applications to enter the workforce without taking on debt.We also talk about the perks of the job, including flying benefits, and Lucky reflects on the difference between an aircraft router and an air traffic controller. This is an inspiring look at hard work, strategy, and how real-life experiences can shape storytelling. ✈️📜🎬 Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Chew Your Food: Edibles, Choking Calls, and Thanksgiving WarrantsHappy holidays from The Cop and the Comic! In this festive episode, I sit down with my dad to dive into his wildest food-related calls during his time on the force. We’re talking about the guy who ate way too many edibles, went berserk, and tried to munch on a car seat (yes, really), and another edible incident that proves some brownies are just too potent.Officer Martin also shares his experience handling choking emergencies and just in time for the Holidays, we hear about the surreal experience of serving warrants during a holiday feast.This episode is the perfect holiday listen: funny, chaotic, and a good reminder to chew your food (and pace yourself with the edibles). Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Fishing for Trouble: Water Enforcement, Overfishing, and the Wild Side of Wildlife RegulationIn this episode of we dive deep—literally—into the world of water-based law enforcement and wildlife regulation. Our retired cop host shares his experience working alongside Louisiana wardens, discussing everything from *Lobster Wars* with the Coast Guard to the real-life struggles of enforcing fishing regulations.We tackle serious issues like overfishing in the Northeast, the impact on whales, cod, pollock, and halibut populations, and the sneaky tactics of rogue fishermen who think they can outsmart the law. With Chinese processing boats contributing to the problem and regulations on net sizes, the job isn’t as easy as it seems. From catching illegally armed hunters to busting poachers trying to smuggle bald eagles, it’s a wild ride—sometimes literally.Join us as we chat about the fine line between regulation and enforcement, the fascinating world of water-based policing, and how these modern-day wardens work to protect our oceans and wildlife. It’s a serious topic with plenty of laughs and stories along the way! Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Podcast Description:What’s up, everybody? You’re tuning in to The Cop and The Comic! In this bonus episode, we’re taking a trip across the pond to dive into expat life with our special guest, Dr. Michelle Anjirbag. After leaving the U.S. for the UK, Dr. Anjirbag shares her journey and insights on the complexities of living abroad. Spoiler alert: the grass isn’t always greener, but the tea is definitely stronger!Join us as we discuss her experiences navigating race and culture in a new country, the realities versus expectations of moving abroad, and the unique joys and challenges of expat life. If you’ve ever considered fleeing America for the land of tea and crumpets, this episode is for you. Let’s get into it! Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Welcome back to The Cop and The Comic! In today’s episode, we’re switching gears from the serious world of law to the enchanting realm of fairy tales—where safety takes on a whole new meaning.I’m excited to be joined by fantasy expert Dr. Michelle Anjirbag as we explore the stories that have shaped our childhoods and beyond. Ever wondered why Cinderella has so many versions? Or whether we should let Pocahontas slide in modern interpretations? We’ll dive into these questions and more, examining the vital role of representation in fairy tales and how these narratives influence our worldview.Disney, take notes!If you’re a fan of magic but appreciate a good reality check, this episode is for you. Stick around—it’s gonna be a fairy good time!Key Points:Michelle’s journey into the world of fairy tales.The significance of diverse versions of classic stories like Cinderella.The impact of representation in fairy tales on our perceptions of reality. Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin

Welcome back to The Cop and The Comic! In today’s episode, we explore the intricate layers of safety and history along the Connecticut Shoreline. Join us as we delve into a place characterized by colonial homes and the casual, often offensive comments we might hear at the local runner store.We’re thrilled to have Dr. Michelle Anjirbag on the show! An esteemed English professor in the UK and a fantasy scholar, Michelle also has roots in journalism, having worked as a reporter covering local news in the Connecticut River Valley. We recorded this conversation just before her fall classes began.In this episode, we tackle the overlooked narratives of Connecticut's past and challenge its reputation as a "rich white paradise," juxtaposed with the stark reality of three cities in the state holding the highest murder rates in the country. If that doesn’t scream, “Welcome to New England!” we’re not sure what does!Key Points:Michelle's beginnings as a reporter in the Connecticut River Valley.The stories often left out of Connecticut's history.The legacy of Connecticut as both a picturesque and problematic space.Listen in for an enlightening discussion that brings to light the complexities of our local histories and how they shape our present! Thanks to our monthly supporters Christopher Fox Daniel Blatt Amy Smith Michael Smoothie, PhD Luciano Mendez Kippie Martin