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Every officer remembers that first call where nothing went according to plan. Voices raised, emotions running hot and no checklist that fully fits the moment. Policing demands more than memorized scripts and policy citations. It requires presence, awareness and the ability to read a room in real time. On this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, we explore why those human skills matter more than ever and how officers can develop them without sacrificing professionalism or safety.
Jim Dudley is joined by Sergeant Alex Mann of the Norfolk County (Mass.) Sheriff’s Office in Massachusetts, author of “The Law of Improv for First Responders.” With nearly three decades in corrections and more than a decade performing improv and stand-up comedy, Mann has developed a training approach that blends improv principles with real-world law enforcement communication. His work focuses on presence, adaptability and intentional action, helping officers navigate high-stress encounters, mental health crises and everyday conflicts with greater confidence and control.
Improv gives them that moment — a structured, engaging way to reset and strengthen their mindset.
About our sponsor
This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.
Tune in to hear
- How improv training helps officers read body language, manage tone and stay present under pressure
- When humor can defuse tension and when it can backfire, plus how to know the difference
- Why policy and procedure aren’t always enough and where adaptive communication fills the gap
- How presence, not rank or volume, often determines whether an encounter escalates or resolves peacefully
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