Download this week’s episode on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify or via RSS feed, and watch the video version on Police1’s YouTube channel.
Women remain significantly underrepresented in law enforcement, especially in leadership roles. But proactive mentorship, targeted training, and authentic conversations about career and family balance can change that dynamic. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley speaks with LAPD Captain Julie Rodriguez about her journey from frontline officer to influential leader, highlighting the critical role mentorship and advocacy play in supporting women through their police careers.
With nearly three decades in law enforcement, Rodriguez is a passionate advocate for women in policing, mentorship and career development. She has served on the board of the Los Angeles Women Police Officers and Associates organization (LAWPOA) and is the incoming president of the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE). Rodriguez has leveraged her personal experiences — overcoming promotional challenges, balancing motherhood and career advancement, and thriving in operational leadership roles — to mentor and inspire women nationwide.
Tune in to discover:
- How to climb the ranks without sacrificing family (or sanity!)
- The secret sauce agencies need to recruit, hire and keep top female talent
- Why mentors rock — but sponsors unlock career doors
- Real talk: How to nail your promotional interview without breaking a sweat
- What men in uniform can (and should!) do to champion their female colleagues
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.
Key takeaways from this episode:
- The importance of women mentoring women: Female mentors provide unique insights, practical advice and support on challenges specific to women officers.
- Promotions and family balance: Women in policing often face tough personal and professional decisions; clear communication, boundary-setting and family support are key to navigating these challenges.
- Real conversations drive change: Transparent dialogue about pregnancy, childcare and work-life balance helps create inclusive departmental cultures.
- Mock interviews and promotion prep: Success in promotional exams comes from consistent practice and focused preparation — skills often overlooked by officers.
- Men as allies: Male officers and department leaders can actively support women by providing opportunities, advocating during promotions, and addressing unique challenges such as pregnancy and childcare openly and compassionately.
Rate and review the Policing Matters podcast
Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Contact the Policing Matters team at policingmatters@police1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback.
