Sergeant Watson returns to MCNEW: Duty. Grit. Grinds. to break down the hard-hitting strategies that have delivered significant victories in the fight against rising lawlessness fueled by unchecked drug use and homelessness. Like many communities across the country, we’ve seen firsthand the consequences of lax policies—public spaces overrun, crime on the rise, and hardworking citizens paying the price.

In this episode, we discuss how our co-responder mental health crisis team has evolved, working alongside law enforcement, local government, and community leaders to restore order. By enforcing laws against open drug use, illegal camping, and trespassing with a zero-tolerance approach, we’ve taken back public spaces, improved community safety, and ensured accountability. This isn’t about enabling bad behavior—it’s about consequences, enforcement, and real solutions.

In this episode, we discuss how our co-responder mental health crisis response team has evolved. They work alongside law enforcement, local government, and community organizations to create lasting solutions. From proactive outreach to strategic enforcement, we highlight how a firm, no-nonsense approach is the only way to tackle one of the most significant challenges facing American cities today.

In this sequel to our last episode, we dive into the generational shifts happening in law enforcement as Baby Boomers retire and new generations step into policing. Sgt. Tim Watson and Felicia McNew join MCNEW: Duty. Grit. Grinds. to explore how GenX, Millennials, and newer recruits are adjusting to work together, bridging the gaps between different work styles and expectations.

We talk about how younger generations are reshaping the culture of policing, especially in terms of work-life balance, and the impact this has on both officer well-being and the health of entire police agencies. Sgt. Watson shares his experiences leading across generations, while Felicia offers insight into how the personal lives of officers play a critical role in their professional success.

Tune in for an in-depth discussion about the challenges and benefits of managing generational diversity in law enforcement and how a balanced approach is key to building a resilient, effective force for the future.

Hiring new police officers has become an uphill battle, and Washington State is feeling the strain. Sgt. Tim Watson joins MCNEW: Duty. Grit. Grinds. to discuss the growing difficulties law enforcement agencies face when it comes to recruiting, from societal challenges to the changing perceptions of the profession. Washington currently ranks 50th in the nation for officers per capita, and we explore the root causes of this crisis, including the detrimental effects of recent malicious prosecutions against police officers in the state.

We dive into how modern policing has evolved with the rise of technology, including body cams and neighborhood surveillance cameras, and how these tools have impacted public trust and juror expectations. Sgt. Watson shares his insights on the importance of community support in creating a successful and sustainable police agency, and why it’s crucial for law enforcement to adapt to societal changes to build stronger relationships with the public.

With the challenges of recruitment, public scrutiny, and evolving technology, the future of law enforcement is uncertain. Tune in for a candid conversation about the obstacles law enforcement faces today, and what can be done to address them before the situation becomes critical.

In this episode, my wife and I dive into the world of cycling, endurance, and pushing limits—both on the road and in life. We share the story of one particularly grueling ride where exhaustion, cold, and frustration set in, and for once, I was the one struggling. As my patience wore thin and the temperature dropped, she took the lead, encouraging me to push through when I wanted to quit. It was a reminder that resilience isn’t just about personal strength—it’s about having the right people beside you when things get tough.

We also discuss our experience with the 75 HARD challenge, a mental and physical discipline test that pushed us beyond our comfort zones. From daily workouts in the rain to maintaining discipline with nutrition and reading, we break down the lessons learned—not just in physical endurance, but in mental toughness and personal accountability. The challenge reinforced the values we already strive to live by, showing us firsthand how consistency, even in the face of difficulty, builds true strength.

Beyond personal challenges, we explore a bigger topic: raising children with grit. In a world that often rewards comfort over struggle, how do we prepare our kids to be independent, capable adults? We discuss the importance of hard work, self-discipline, and learning to embrace discomfort—whether through sports, chores, or simply holding them accountable for their responsibilities. Raising resilient kids means teaching them to overcome obstacles, not avoid them.

We wrap up the episode with practical insights on how to foster independence, confidence, and the kind of discipline that helps young people navigate life without falling into the pitfalls of entitlement and weakness.

My wife’s first ride in a patrol car was anything but routine. What started as a ride-along quickly became a police chase across two states, ending in a PIT maneuver and a crash on a dark country road.

But the night didn’t end there—while I was inside a nearby house on our next call, my wife waited alone in my locked patrol car parked on the street. A gang member approached and tried to get into the car, leaving her with no radio, no backup, and only one option—laying on the horn to get my attention.

In this episode, my wife joins me to relive the wildest first shift she could’ve imagined.

In this episode of MCNEW: Duty. Grit. Grinds., we dive into a memorable ride-along experience that perfectly captures a wonderful experience I shared with my grandpa. From responding to two active shootings, a car chase, and physical altercations in a single shift, it was a whirlwind day that left both of us with stories to tell for a lifetime. It was also a day that highlighted his pride in the work done by police officers and the values he instilled in me.

The episode shifts to quiet moments spent at Grandpa’s home, where he’d frequently ask, “Is it getting worse out there?” His question wasn’t just about the chaos on the news but stemmed from his observation of a world seemingly moving away from values he cherished—honesty, hard work, and faith. We discuss how I tried to answer his question with hope, drawing from the resilience I see in families like ours who still prioritize what is good and right and live with faith in a Savior who offers redemption in an increasingly broken world.

Then, in November 2022, life took an unexpected turn. I share the bittersweet news of Grandpa’s cancer diagnosis and his faith in his final days. His peace and assurance, rooted in his trust in Jesus Christ, were profound. Reflecting on the wisdom he imparted to our family, I recount stories from his life—his example of hard work, the value he placed on relationships, and the simple joys of time spent with loved ones. Whether it was lessons learned in at a logging job, the symbolism of a well-cared-for pair of boots, or the importance of pausing to “go fishing” with those who matter most, Grandpa’s life was a testament to what truly endures.

Finally, I share the parts of the eulogy I had the honor of delivering at his service, where I honored his legacy and the lessons he passed down. At its core was his faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ—a faith that gave him peace in life and hope in death. Join me in celebrating a man who left an indelible mark on our family and countless others, reminding us all to live with purpose, cherish our loved ones, and trust in something greater than ourselves.

Life has a way of starting in the most unexpected places. In this episode of MCNEW: Duty. Grit. Grinds., we travel through time with stories of resilience, beginning with my ancestors born under remarkable circumstances—a cave deep in the wilderness, a covered wagon on the frontier, and a kitchen turned makeshift delivery room. These moments reflect the grit and determination that shaped generations.

But the journey doesn’t stop there. I’ll share incredible stories from my own career as a police officer, including two unforgettable nights delivering babies—one in the back of a Jeep Cherokee and another in the tight quarters of a single-wide trailer. These tales blend humor, humanity, and the profound realization that life begins wherever it chooses, even in the unlikeliest of places.

In this episode, I sit down with my son, Finnegan, for a lighthearted chat about the evolution of entertainment—comparing today’s video games to the realities of life in the 1900s.

We also touch on the importance of firearm safety and enjoy a candid father-and-son moment filled with laughter and insights. Join us for a fun conversation bridging generations.