In Episode 954 of the Street Cop Podcast, host Dennis Benigno and instructor Ely Alfonso sit down with Mike Swirchak, a former law enforcement officer and K9 handler who now excels as a dog trainer in North Carolina. Mike shares his journey from the challenges of law enforcement to becoming a government contractor and ultimately finding his passion in dog training. Listen as he reflects on the current state of K9 units, the importance of innovative training methods, and the personal connections forged between officers and their K9 partners. We’ll explore the mental health challenges in law enforcement, the courage it takes to embrace change, and the fulfillment that comes from following your life's purpose. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about evolution, purpose, and the special bond between humans and dogs.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 :00 - 00:01:09 :01
Teaser

00:01:09 :01 - 00:01:44 :04
Intro

00:01:44 :04 - 00:02:57 :10
Mike’s background

00:02:57 :10 - 00:04:35 :16
Mike’s experience working in Afghanistan

00:04:35 :16 - 00:05:42 :10
Good memories with Mike and Elia

00:05:42 :10 - 00:07:05 :06
The hardships of leaving law enforcement

00:07:05 :06 - 00:12:24 :09
The current state of K9 and training in law enforcement

00:12:24 :09 - 00:16:17 :06
The origin of Dennis’ drive

00:16:17 :06 - 00:22:29 :10
Thinking outside of the box & the detriments of ego

00:22:29 :10 - 00:27:23 :13
Utilizing specialists to teach & poor policy

00:27:23 :13 - 00:31:36 :23
The decline of K9 units in law enforcement

00:31:36 :23 - 00:33:09 :18
The personal value of dogs

00:33:09 :18 - 00:34:43 :17
Training issues with dogs

00:34:43 :17 - 00:36:48 :11
Mike’s thoughts on his current company

00:36:48 :11 - 00:38:58 :04
Does Mike regret leaving law enforcement?

00:38:58 :04 - 00:43:57 :13
The winning mindset

00:43:57 :13 - 00:48:00 :11
Fear of change & taking a leap of faith

00:48:00 :11 - 00:50:57 :14
Mental health in law enforcement

00:50:57 :14 - 00:53:59 :24
Following your life’s purpose

00:53:59 :24 - 00:54:34 :05
Outro